Stilpnochlora
Stål, 1873
Neotropical Giant Katydids
Species Guides
1- Stilpnochlora couloniana(Giant Katydid)
Stilpnochlora is a of phaneropterine katydids in the Tettigoniidae, native to tropical and subtropical parts of the Americas. The genus contains approximately 15 described . Members are relatively large, leaf-like katydids, mostly green in coloration, with body lengths ranging from 5 to 10 cm depending on species. Females generally exceed males in size within the same species. Stilpnochlora couloniana is the largest in the United States.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Stilpnochlora: //stɪlpnoʊˈklɔːrə//
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Identification
Some have distinctive features allowing relatively easy identification, while several others are very similar and require careful examination of specific morphological details. Geographic distribution is often useful for distinguishing between similar species. Detailed morphological analysis is necessary for reliable species-level identification in many cases.
Images
Appearance
Relatively large, leaf-like katydids with predominantly green coloration. Body length ranges from 5 to 10 cm depending on exact . Females generally reach larger sizes than males of the same species. Overall is cryptic, resembling foliage.
Habitat
Tropical and subtropical environments in the Americas. Specific microhabitat preferences are not well documented in available sources.
Distribution
Native to tropical and subtropical parts of the Americas. Distribution records include Brazil, Argentina (Northeast and Northwest), Bahamas, and Bolivia. Stilpnochlora couloniana occurs in the United States; no other member of the tribe Steirodontini occurs north of Mexico or the Caribbean islands.
Diet
Entirely herbivorous, as far as known. All members of the tribe Steirodontini, including Stilpnochlora, feed on plant material.
More Details
Taxonomic Notes
Stilpnochlora belongs to the tribe Steirodontini within the Phaneropterinae. The was established by Stål in 1873.
Size Record
S. couloniana is the largest in the United States.