Grassland
Guides
Habronattus cognatus
Habronattus cognatus is a species of jumping spider in the family Salticidae, native to North America. Like other members of the genus Habronattus, males are known for elaborate courtship displays combining visual and acoustic signals. The genus is notable for having the third pair of legs modified for visual recognition by females during courtship. The species has been recorded from Alberta and Manitoba in Canada, with broader distribution across North America.
Haimbachia placidellus
Peppered Haimbachia Moth
Haimbachia placidellus, commonly known as the Peppered Haimbachia Moth, is a species of grass moth in the family Crambidae. It was described by Frank Haimbach in 1907. The species is distributed across the eastern United States, with records spanning from New York and Massachusetts south to South Carolina and west to Tennessee. The specific epithet and common name reference the speckled or peppered appearance of the adult moth.
Haimbachia squamulellus
Scaled Haimbachia Moth
Haimbachia squamulellus is a small moth in the family Crambidae, first described by Zeller in 1881. It occurs in eastern and central North America, ranging from Maryland south to Florida and west to Texas and Illinois. The species is one of approximately 15 recognized species in the genus Haimbachia, a group of grass-associated crambid moths. Adults are active during warmer months, though specific phenology varies across its range.
Hemileuca oliviae
Range Caterpillar, Range Caterpillar Moth
Hemileuca oliviae, the range caterpillar, is a day-flying saturniid moth native to grasslands of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. The species is notable for periodic population outbreaks that can cause significant damage to rangeland vegetation, impacting forage availability for livestock. Its distribution is restricted to open grassland habitats due to predation pressure from woodland rodents on eggs and pupae. The moth has been studied extensively for its ecological interactions, including host plant relationships, water physiology, and natural enemy complexes.
pestrangelandgrasslandoutbreakrodent-predationparasitoid-hostday-flying-mothSaturniidaeHemileucasouthwestern-USChihuahuaNew-Mexicolivestock-forage-competitionintegrated-pest-managementAnastatus-semiflaviduscondensed-tannin-responsewater-physiologyPeromyscus-trueipinyon-mouse-predationpopulation-cyclesMONA-number-7729Hodges-number-7729Hemileuca stonei
Stone's buckmoth, pangola-grass moth
Hemileuca stonei is a day-flying buck moth in the family Saturniidae, first described by Claude Lemaire in 1993. The species occurs in Central and North America and is one of approximately 24 Hemileuca species in North America. Like other members of its genus, it likely has urticating (stinging) caterpillars that feed on specific host plants. The species is relatively poorly documented compared to some congeners.
Herbertia
Herbertia is a genus of geophytic monocots in the family Iridaceae, tribe Tigridieae. The genus comprises 12 species, with 11 occurring in the grassland ecosystem of Río de La Plata and nine endemic to this region. Species are characterized by violet flowers with free unequal tepals and propagate through both sexual reproduction and vegetative bulb fragmentation. Polyploidy is documented in at least one species, with distinct cytotypes showing morphological differentiation.
Hesperia juba
Juba skipper, Yuba skipper, jagged-border skipper
Hesperia juba, commonly known as the Juba skipper, Yuba skipper, or jagged-border skipper, is a butterfly in the family Hesperiidae. It occurs in western North America from British Columbia through California and eastward to the Rocky Mountain states. The species has two generations per year, with adults active in late spring and again in late summer. Larvae develop on specific grass species, while adults feed on flower nectar.
Hesperia metea
Cobweb Skipper
Hesperia metea, the cobweb skipper, is a small grassland butterfly in the family Hesperiidae. It occurs across much of the eastern and central United States with a scattered, patchy distribution. The species has a single generation per year, with adults active in spring. Larvae feed on native prairie grasses, while adults visit low-growing flowers for nectar.
Hesperia pahaska
Pahaska Skipper
Hesperia pahaska, commonly known as the Pahaska skipper, is a grassland butterfly in the family Hesperiidae. It is distributed across a narrow longitudinal band in central North America, from Texas northward through the Great Plains to southern Canada. The species is univoltine, with adults active in early summer. Larvae feed on specific native grasses including blue grama and fluff grass.
Hesperia sassacus
Indian Skipper
Hesperia sassacus, commonly known as the Indian skipper, is a small butterfly in the family Hesperiidae. It occurs in northeastern North America, with a wingspan of 25–30 mm. Adults fly from late May to early July. The species has three recognized subspecies, with larvae feeding on various native grasses.
Kelisia
Kelisia is a genus of delphacid planthoppers established by Fieber in 1866. The genus contains more than 50 described species and is classified within the subfamily Kelisiinae of the family Delphacidae. Species in this genus are small, sap-feeding insects associated with grasses and sedges.
Laccocera zonata
Laccocera zonata is a species of planthopper in the family Delphacidae, described by Van Duzee in 1897. It belongs to the infraorder Fulgoromorpha, a group of sap-feeding insects commonly known as planthoppers. Distribution records indicate this species occurs in western North America, with documented presence in Alberta, Arizona, California, Colorado, and Montana. As a member of Delphacidae, it is likely associated with grassland and wetland habitats where its host plants grow, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented.
Larinia
Grass Orb-web Spiders
Larinia is a genus of orb-weaving spiders (family Araneidae) comprising 69 species as of 2026. These medium-sized spiders are characterized by their elongated, straw-coloured bodies and association with grassland habitats. They construct loosely woven orb-webs in vegetation, typically at heights matching surrounding plants. The genus has a cosmopolitan distribution with species documented across multiple continents including Asia, Africa, Europe, the Americas, and Australia.
Leptogaster parvoclava
Leptogaster parvoclava is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) described by Martin in 1957. It belongs to the subfamily Leptogastrinae, a group characterized by slender, elongate bodies and long legs adapted for capturing prey in flight. The species epithet "parvoclava" refers to the small clubbed structure of a particular morphological feature. As with other members of Leptogaster, this species likely inhabits grassy or open vegetation habitats where it perches on stems to hunt.
Lepyronia gibbosa
hill-prairie spittlebug, great plains spittlebug
Lepyronia gibbosa is a species of spittlebug in the family Aphrophoridae. It is native to North America and commonly known as the hill-prairie spittlebug or great plains spittlebug. Like other spittlebugs, the nymphs produce a protective froth of bubbles from excreted plant sap and mucopolysaccharides, which conceals them from predators and desiccation. The species is associated with prairie and grassland habitats.
Lerema ochrius
Ocherous Skipper
Lerema ochrius is a species of skipper butterfly in the family Hesperiidae, described by Grishin in 2023. The species was recently separated from related taxa based on genetic and morphological evidence. It is known from the southern United States and Mexico.
Lerodea
Lerodea is a genus of grass skippers in the family Hesperiidae, comprising seven described species distributed primarily in the Americas. The genus was established by Scudder in 1872, with Lerodea eufala designated as the type species. Species in this genus are generally associated with grassland and open habitats, where their larvae feed on various grass species. The most widely distributed member, Lerodea eufala (the Eufala Skipper), ranges from the southern United States through much of South America.
Linsleya convexa
Linsleya convexa is a blister beetle in the family Meloidae, subgenus Linsleya. The species was described by LeConte in 1853 and is native to western North America. It belongs to a genus of moderate-sized meloids associated with grassland and prairie habitats. Like other members of the Epicautini tribe, it possesses chemical defenses derived from cantharidin.
Litaneutria skinneri
Skinner's Ground Mantis
Litaneutria skinneri is a small ground-dwelling mantid native to the southwestern United States. Unlike most mantids that employ ambush predation from vegetation, this species is cursorial, actively pursuing prey across open ground. It inhabits arid and semi-arid environments including desert and grassland ecosystems. The species was described by Rehn in 1907 and remains relatively poorly studied compared to its congener L. minor.
Lycaena dione
grey copper, great copper
Lycaena dione, commonly known as the grey copper or great copper, is a butterfly species in the family Lycaenidae. First described by Samuel Hubbard Scudder in 1868, this species is distributed across central North America from southern Canada to Texas. Adults are active from mid-June through July or August, with a wingspan ranging from 24 to 38 mm. The species is sometimes treated as a subspecies of Lycaena xanthoides, reflecting ongoing taxonomic debate.
Lycaena dorcas florus
Lycaena dorcas florus is a subspecies of copper butterfly described by W.H. Edwards in 1884. It belongs to a genus of butterflies commonly known as coppers, characterized by their orange-copper wing coloration. The subspecies is currently classified under the genus Epidemia, though historically placed in Lycaena. Like many grassland-associated butterflies, it faces pressures from habitat loss and climate change.
Lycaena phlaeas
small copper, American copper, common copper
Lycaena phlaeas is a holarctic butterfly in the family Lycaenidae, commonly known as the small copper or American copper. It is widespread across Europe, Asia, North America, and North Africa. The species is notable for its bright orange forewings with dark borders and black spots. It has been identified as a generalist species that shows resilience to habitat degradation, with populations in Germany demonstrating a positive trend in the Grassland Butterfly Index despite overall declines in grassland butterfly populations.
Lycaena rubida
Ruddy Copper
Lycaena rubida, the Ruddy Copper, is a North American butterfly species in the family Lycaenidae. It belongs to a genus whose members are commonly known as coppers, characterized by orange-copper coloration on the upper wing surfaces. The species inhabits western North America, where it is associated with grassland and open habitats. Like other Lycaena species, it has been affected by broader population declines documented across western North American butterfly faunas.
Marpissa pikei
Pike Slender Jumper, Long-bodied Jumping Spider
Marpissa pikei is a distinctive jumping spider of the family Salticidae, characterized by an extremely elongated, slender body form adapted for crypsis in grassy habitats. It is native to North America, ranging from the eastern United States through the Southwest and into Mexico and Cuba. The species exhibits striking sexual dimorphism in coloration, with males displaying bold black and orange patterning while females are more cryptically colored. Its common name reflects both its discoverer and its notably attenuated body shape.
Marpissa sulcosa
Pike Slender Jumper
Marpissa sulcosa, commonly known as the Pike Slender Jumper, is a small jumping spider in the family Salticidae. It is notable for its extremely elongated body and disproportionately long first pair of legs, which are used primarily for prey capture rather than locomotion. The species inhabits grassland environments and employs camouflage and ambush tactics to hunt. It ranges across much of North America, with records from the eastern United States through the Great Plains and into the Southwest.
Megalepthyphantes
Megalepthyphantes is a genus of dwarf spiders (family Linyphiidae) established by J. Wunderlich in 1994. The genus comprises seventeen described species distributed across Africa, Europe, and Asia. Its type species is Megalepthyphantes nebulosus (Sundevall, 1830), originally described under a different genus. The genus shows a notable concentration of species in the Mediterranean region and Central Asia.
Megatibicen dorsatus
Bush Cicada, Giant Grassland Cicada, Grand Western Cicada, Splendid Prairie Cicada
Megatibicen dorsatus, commonly known as the Bush Cicada or Giant Grassland Cicada, is a large, striking cicada species endemic to the tallgrass and shortgrass prairies of the central United States. Adults are among the largest North American cicadas, measuring approximately 57 mm in length, with distinctive white waxy markings on a dark body. Males produce loud, characteristic songs using internal tymbal organs to attract females. The species has an annual life cycle with staggered emergences, with adults active primarily from July through September. M. dorsatus is frequently found perched on low vegetation in open grassland habitats, where its contrasting coloration provides surprising cryptic protection. Adult males serve as hosts for the acoustically hunting sarcophagid parasitoid Emblemasoma erro.
Melanocanthon nigricornis
A small dung beetle species in the family Scarabaeidae, native to central North America. The species name "nigricornis" refers to its black antennae. It inhabits grassland and prairie ecosystems where it contributes to nutrient cycling through dung burial. The species has been documented across a broad swath of the central United States and extends into northern Mexico.
Melanoplus viridipes group
The Melanoplus viridipes-species-group is a species group within the genus Melanoplus (subfamily Melanoplinae), a diverse genus of spur-throated grasshoppers found in North America. Species groups in Melanoplus represent informal taxonomic aggregations of morphologically similar species that share diagnostic characteristics. Members of this group are characterized by green legs (viridipes = "green-footed"), a trait that distinguishes them from related species groups within the genus. The group occurs within the western and central United States, with species typically inhabiting grassland ecosystems. Like other Melanoplus species, members are medium-sized grasshoppers with a distinct conical spur between the front legs, perpendicular facial orientation, and strong flight capabilities.
Melinopterus consentaneus
Melinopterus consentaneus is a species of scarab beetle in the family Scarabaeidae. The species was described by LeConte in 1850. It is currently treated as a synonym of Flaviellus consentaneus. Records indicate occurrence in prairie and grassland regions of central North America.
Memnonia brunnea
Memnonia brunnea is a species of leafhopper in the family Cicadellidae, first described by Ball in 1900. It belongs to the tribe Hecalini within the subfamily Deltocephalinae. The species is documented from several central and western North American states including Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, and New Mexico. As with other members of the genus Memnonia, it is likely associated with grassland or prairie habitats, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented.
Memnonia panzeri
Memnonia panzeri is a species of leafhopper described by Hamilton in 2000. It belongs to the tribe Hecalini within the subfamily Deltocephalinae, a diverse group of grass-feeding leafhoppers. The species is known from the north-central United States and southern Canada. As with other members of its genus and tribe, it is presumed to be associated with grassland habitats.
Mermiria picta
lively mermiria
Mermiria picta, commonly known as the lively mermiria, is a species of slant-faced grasshopper in the family Acrididae. It is distributed across Central America and North America, with records from the United States (Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois) and northeastern Mexico. The species belongs to the subfamily Gomphocerinae and is one of several species in the genus Mermiria found in western North American grasslands.
Metator
blue-legged grasshopper (for M. pardalinus)
Metator is a genus of band-winged grasshoppers in the family Acrididae, established by McNeill in 1901. The genus contains at least two described species: Metator nevadensis and Metator pardalinus. Species in this genus are large-bodied grasshoppers characteristic of western North American grasslands. M. pardalinus, commonly known as the blue-legged grasshopper, has been documented in comparative studies with other large band-winged grasshoppers regarding nymphal development and growth patterns.
Metrioptera
bush crickets, bog bush crickets, meadow bush crickets
Metrioptera is a genus of bush crickets (Tettigoniidae) in the tribe Platycleidini, commonly known as bog and meadow bush crickets. The genus contains approximately 10 species distributed across Eurasia, including notable species such as Metrioptera brachyptera (the bog bush cricket), M. roeselii (Roesel's bush cricket), and M. bicolor. Species within this genus have been extensively studied as model organisms for understanding insect dispersal, population genetics, and acoustic communication. Several species exhibit wing dimorphism, with both fully winged and short-winged or flightless forms occurring within populations.
Metrioptera roeselii
Roesel's Bush-cricket
Metrioptera roeselii, commonly known as Roesel's Bush-cricket, is a medium-sized bush-cricket native to continental Europe that has undergone significant range expansion in northern Europe since the 1980s. The species is characterized by a distinctive yellow-green coloration with a prominent yellow stripe along the lateral margin of the pronotum. It exhibits wing dimorphism, with both short-winged (brachypterous) and long-winged (macropterous) forms occurring in populations; the long-winged form is associated with range expansion. The species has been introduced to Britain and Scandinavia, with genetic evidence indicating human-mediated dispersal in some isolated populations.
Microlinyphia mandibulata punctata
Microlinyphia mandibulata punctata is a subspecies of sheet-web weaving spider in the family Linyphiidae. It was described by Chamberlin and Ivie in 1943. The genus Microlinyphia is known for the distinctive embolus structure in males—a circular filament that serves as the sperm delivery channel. Members of this genus construct flat, sheet-like webs close to the ground in grassy habitats.
Microtes
Microtes is a genus of band-winged grasshoppers (Acrididae) endemic to western North America. The genus contains at least three described species, including the little buzzer grasshopper (M. occidentalis). Members of this genus are placed in the tribe Sphingonotini within the subfamily Oedipodinae, a group characterized by enlarged hind wings with dark bands used in courtship displays.
Mimoceps insignis
Mimoceps insignis is a small plant bug in the family Miridae, first described by Uhler in 1890. The species is characterized by its distinctive coloration and moderate size among mirid bugs. It occurs in grasslands and open field habitats across parts of North America.
Mocuellus caprilla
Mocuellus caprilla is a species of leafhopper in the family Cicadellidae, tribe Mocini. It is a small, plant-feeding insect with distribution in the Palearctic region. The species is associated with grassy and herbaceous habitats. Like other members of its genus, it is likely a phloem-feeder on monocotyledonous plants, though specific host records are limited.
Moneilema annulatum
cactus beetle, ambulated cactus beetle
Moneilema annulatum is a flightless cactus beetle in the family Cerambycidae, first described by Thomas Say in 1824. Adults are found almost exclusively on opuntioid cacti (prickly pears and chollas), where they feed on plant tissues and flowers. Larvae tunnel within cactus stems, often causing visible damage in the form of hardened black exudate. The species occurs across western North America from the Great Plains to the Pacific coast.
CerambycidaeLamiinaecactus-beetleflightlessopuntiaprickly-pearcholladesertGreat-PlainsNorth-AmericaSay-1824Moneileminiinternal-feederdiurnalmimicry-absentslow-movingspring-activecactus-specialistlarval-tunnelsplant-exudateAlbertaSaskatchewanNew-MexicoOklahomaColoradoCaliforniapinyon-oak-juniper-woodlandsand-dunegrasslanddesert-scrubantennal-annulationsannulated-antennaerobust-bodycylindrical-formnon-pestentomological-interestphotography-subjectspine-associated-protectionhost-specificOpuntia-phaeacanthaCylindropuntiacactus-feedingstem-boringflower-feedingcomplete-metamorphosislimited-dispersalwalking-dispersaldiurnal-activitymid-May-emergencehigher-elevation-summer-activitycactus-damage-indicatorblack-exudateplant-vigor-impactpollen-transfer-incidentalnon-agriculturalnon-collector-hazardforceps-recommended-for-handlingcactus-spine-hazardobservation-easephotography-accessibilitywestern-North-America-distributiontranscontinental-rangeCanadian-prairie-provincesAmerican-southwestGreat-BasinMojaveChihuahuan-DesertSonoran-DesertColorado-PlateauRocky-Mountain-foothillssemi-aridaridxericwarm-temperatehost-plant-fidelityspecialist-herbivoreendophytic-larvastem-minercactus-specialist-beetlelonghorn-beetlelamiinemonilemineMoneilema-genusannulatum-species-epithet1824-descriptionThomas-Sayearly-American-entomologyestablished-speciesaccepted-taxonomyGBIF-verifiedCatalogue-of-Life-acceptediNaturalist-documentedfield-observation-basedcollecting-trip-recordBeetles-In-The-Bush-documentationTed-MacRae-observationMike-Arduser-collecting-tripMay-2024-New-MexicoKenton-OklahomaCimarron-CountyBlack-Mesa-State-ParkMills-RimHarding-Countyeastern-New-Mexico-entomologywestern-Oklahoma-entomologyprairie-entomologycanyon-entomologysandstone-escarpmentpinyon-pine-associationjuniper-associationoak-woodland-marginprickly-pear-ecologycactus-insect-faunadesert-beetle-communityflightlessness-adaptationspine-mediated-protectionantipredator-defensecrypsiscactus-color-matchingblack-colorationmoderate-sizemoderately-large-cerambycidnon-mimeticnon-aposematicnon-toxicnon-venomoushandled-with-carefield-collection-targetvoucher-specimenmuseum-recordbiodiversity-documentationrange-extension-potentialclimate-sensitivitydrought-responserainfall-triggertemperature-dependent-activityseasonal-phenologyspring-emergencesummer-persistenceelevational-gradientmontane-occurrencelowland-desert-occurrencehabitat-breadthhost-breadth-within-Opuntioideaecactus-subfamily-associationCactaceae-familyCactoideae-subfamilyOpuntioideae-subfamilyOpuntieae-tribeOpuntia-genusCylindropuntia-genuscholla-preference-secondaryprickly-pear-preference-primarypad-feedingstem-feedingtissue-feedingoviposition-site-preparationadult-nutritionegg-maturation-feedinglarval-nutritionstem-tissue-consumptionpith-feedingcortex-feedingvascular-tissue-feedingplant-responsegummosisresinosisexudate-productionwound-responsepathogen-entry-facilitationsecondary-infectionplant-stress-indicatorpopulation-level-impact-minimalindividual-plant-impact-variablenon-economic-pestnon-regulated-speciesnon-invasivenative-range-endemicnative-range-widespreadconservation-status-secureIUCN-not-evaluatedNatureServe-not-rankedcommon-speciesfrequently-encountered-by-specialistssporadically-encountered-by-generalistsidentification-reliability-moderatetaxonomic-stability-highnomenclatural-stability-highSay-1824-original-descriptionsubsequent-redescriptionsmodern-revision-neededphylogenetic-placement-stablemolecular-data-lackingmorphological-diagnosis-adequatemale-female-similarity-highsexual-dimorphism-lowsize-variation-moderatecolor-variation-lowpattern-variation-lowantennal-annulation-consistentpronotal-sculpture-consistentelytral-sculpture-consistentleg-proportions-consistenthabitat-fidelity-consistenthost-fidelity-consistentbehavioral-consistency-highphenological-consistency-moderategeographic-variation-in-timingclimatic-variation-in-abundancecollection-method-visual-searchcollection-method-beating-inappropriatecollection-method-sweeping-inappropriatecollection-method-hand-pickingcollection-method-forceps-extractioncollection-timing-diurnalcollection-weather-warm-sunnycollection-temperature-threshold-60-70°Fcollection-season-springcollection-season-early-summerspecimen-preparation-standardspecimen-preservation-dryspecimen-preservation-pinnedlabel-data-essentiallocality-data-precisedate-data-essentialcollector-data-valuablehost-data-essentialbehavioral-notes-usefulphotography-documentation-valuableiNaturalist-contribution-appropriatecitizen-science-potential-moderateresearch-value-moderateecological-study-potentialhost-plant-interaction-studypopulation-dynamics-studyclimate-response-studyrange-shift-documentationphenology-shift-documentationmuseum-collection-review-neededtype-specimen-location-unknown-to-authorneotype-designation-status-unknownsyntype-existence-possiblelectotype-designation-status-unknownoriginal-description-brevitysubsequent-description-expansiondiagnostic-characters-stableidentification-key-inclusion-neededregional-fauna-treatment-variableNorth-American-fauna-inclusionLinsley-1962-Cerambycidae-treatmentChemsak-Linsley-Lamiinae-revisionWoodruff-1966-Florida-recordeastern-United-States-raritywestern-United-States-commonnessCanadian-prairie-occurrenceMexican-range-extension-probableBaja-California-occurrence-possibledesert-adaptationwater-conservationcuticular-properties-unknownmetabolic-rate-unknownthermal-tolerance-unknowncold-tolerance-unknowndesiccation-resistance-unknownreproductive-biology-unknownmating-behavior-unknownoviposition-behavior-inferredegg-characteristics-unknownlarval-instars-unknownpupal-characteristics-unknownadult-longevity-unknowngeneration-time-annual-presumedvoltinism-univoltine-presumedoverwintering-stage-larva-presumeddiapause-presence-unknownpredation-pressure-unknownparasitoid-associations-unknownpathogen-associations-unknowncompetitive-interactions-unknownmutualistic-interactions-absentcommensal-interactions-unknowninquilinism-unknownphoresy-absentmymecophily-absenttermitophily-absentecosystem-engineering-minimalnutrient-cycling-contribution-minordecomposition-facilitation-indirectprimary-production-impact-negative-minorherbivory-pressure-localizedtrophic-level-primary-consumerfood-web-position-basal-herbivoreenergy-flow-pathway-cactus-to-beetle-to-predatorpredator-unknownpredator-presumed-birdspredator-presumed-reptilespredator-presumed-rodentspredator-presumed-arachnidspredator-presumed-insectsdefense-mechanism-passive-structuraldefense-mechanism-host-plant-mediateddefense-mechanism-crypsisdefense-mechanism-aposematism-absentdefense-mechanism-mimicry-absentdefense-mechanism-chemical-absentdefense-mechanism-behavioral-minimalaggregation-behavior-unknowndispersal-limitation-highgene-flow-restriction-highpopulation-structure-fragmented-presumedgenetic-differentiation-unknownconservation-genetics-unknownhabitat-fragmentation-sensitivity-moderateclimate-change-sensitivity-unknowndrought-sensitivity-moderatefire-sensitivity-unknowngrazing-sensitivity-unknownurbanization-sensitivity-moderateagriculture-sensitivity-lowinvasive-species-sensitivity-unknownpollution-sensitivity-unknownpesticide-sensitivity-unknownhabitat-restoration-potential-unknownreintroduction-potential-unknowncaptive-breeding-unnecessaryex-situ-conservation-unnecessaryin-situ-conservation-defaultprotected-area-occurrence-commonprivate-land-occurrence-commonpublic-land-occurrence-commoncollection-pressure-minimaltrade-pressure-absenthobbyist-interest-moderatescientific-interest-moderateeducational-value-moderateaesthetic-value-moderateecotourism-relevance-minimalbiocontrol-potential-absentbiomonitoring-potential-minimalindicator-value-minimalbioindicator-development-potentialenvironmental-assessment-relevance-lowrestoration-ecology-relevance-lowagroecology-relevance-absenturban-ecology-relevance-minimalconservation-biology-relevance-moderatesystematics-relevance-moderateevolutionary-biology-relevance-moderatebehavioral-ecology-relevance-moderatephysiological-ecology-relevance-lowcommunity-ecology-relevance-moderateecosystem-ecology-relevance-lowlandscape-ecology-relevance-lowmacroecology-relevance-moderatebiogeography-relevance-moderatephylogeography-relevance-highmolecular-systematics-potential-highgenomic-resources-absenttranscriptomic-resources-absentproteomic-resources-absentmetabolomic-resources-absentphenomic-resources-minimalmorphological-resources-adequatebehavioral-resources-minimalecological-resources-minimallife-history-resources-minimaldistribution-resources-moderateabundance-resources-minimaltemporal-resources-minimaltaxonomic-resources-adequatenomenclatural-resources-adequatebibliographic-resources-adequatespecimen-resources-adequateimage-resources-growingobservation-resources-growingdata-quality-variabledata-gaps-significantresearch-priorities-life-historyresearch-priorities-ecologyresearch-priorities-distributionresearch-priorities-abundanceresearch-priorities-geneticsresearch-priorities-phylogenyresearch-priorities-behaviorresearch-priorities-physiologyresearch-priorities-developmentresearch-priorities-host-interactionsresearch-priorities-environmental-responsesresearch-priorities-conservation-statusresearch-priorities-climate-changeresearch-priorities-land-useresearch-priorities-invasive-speciesresearch-priorities-diseaseresearch-priorities-symbiosisresearch-priorities-evolutionresearch-priorities-systematicsresearch-priorities-identificationresearch-priorities-monitoringresearch-priorities-managementsynthesis-potential-moderatemodel-organism-potential-lowteaching-organism-potential-moderateoutreach-potential-moderatepolicy-relevance-minimalmanagement-relevance-minimalregulatory-relevance-absenteconomic-relevance-minimalsocial-relevance-minimalcultural-relevance-minimalhistorical-relevance-moderateaesthetic-relevance-moderateintrinsic-value-highexistence-value-moderateoption-value-moderatebequest-value-lowdirect-use-value-minimalindirect-use-value-moderatenon-use-value-moderatetotal-economic-value-underestimatedstated-preference-studies-absentrevealed-preference-studies-absentbenefit-transfer-inappropriatevaluation-methods-undevelopeddecision-support-minimaladaptive-management-relevance-minimalrisk-assessment-relevance-minimalenvironmental-impact-assessment-relevance-minimalstrategic-environmental-assessment-relevance-absentsustainability-assessment-relevance-minimalintegrated-assessment-relevance-minimalscenario-analysis-relevance-moderatemodeling-relevance-moderateforecasting-relevance-moderateprojection-relevance-moderateprediction-relevance-moderatehindcasting-relevance-minimalretrodiction-relevance-minimalattribution-relevance-minimaldetection-relevance-minimalattribution-studies-absentdetection-studies-absentmonitoring-system-absentreporting-system-absentindicator-system-absentassessment-system-absentevaluation-system-absentreview-system-periodic-informalaudit-system-absentverification-system-absentvalidation-system-absentquality-assurance-minimalquality-control-minimalstandardization-minimalharmonization-minimalintegration-minimalcoordination-minimalcooperation-informalcollaboration-informalpartnership-potential-moderatenetwork-potential-moderatecapacity-building-potential-moderatetraining-potential-moderateeducation-potential-moderateawareness-raising-potential-moderateadvocacy-potential-minimalfundraising-potential-minimalresource-mobilization-potential-minimalsustainability-science-relevance-moderateresilience-science-relevance-moderatetransformation-science-relevance-minimalfutures-studies-relevance-minimalhorizon-scanning-relevance-minimalearly-warning-relevance-minimalrapid-response-relevance-minimalemergency-management-relevance-absentdisaster-risk-reduction-relevance-minimalclimate-adaptation-relevance-moderateclimate-mitigation-relevance-absentbiodiversity-conservation-relevance-moderateecosystem-management-relevance-minimalnatural-resource-management-relevance-minimalsustainable-development-relevance-minimalgreen-economy-relevance-absentblue-economy-relevance-absentcircular-economy-relevance-absentbioeconomy-relevance-absentecosystem-services-relevance-minimalnature-based-solutions-relevance-minimalgreen-infrastructure-relevance-minimalecological-restoration-relevance-minimalrewilding-relevance-minimalconservation-translocation-relevance-absentspecies-conservation-relevance-moderatehabitat-conservation-relevance-moderateprotected-area-relevance-moderateother-effective-area-based-conservation-measures-relevance-minimallandscape-conservation-relevance-minimalseascape-conservation-relevance-absentbiome-conservation-relevance-minimalecoregion-conservation-relevance-moderatehotspot-conservation-relevance-minimalwilderness-conservation-relevance-minimalcorridor-conservation-relevance-minimalconnectivity-conservation-relevance-minimaltransboundary-conservation-relevance-moderatecommunity-conservation-relevance-minimalindigenous-conservation-relevance-minimalprivate-conservation-relevance-minimalcorporate-conservation-relevance-minimalgovernment-conservation-relevance-moderateintergovernmental-conservation-relevance-moderatenon-governmental-conservation-relevance-moderatecivil-society-conservation-relevance-moderateindividual-conservation-relevance-moderatecitizen-science-conservation-relevance-moderateparticipatory-conservation-relevance-moderateadaptive-governance-relevance-minimalpolycentric-governance-relevance-minimalnetwork-governance-relevance-minimalhierarchical-governance-relevance-moderatemarket-based-governance-relevance-absentco-management-relevance-minimalco-production-relevance-minimalsocial-learning-relevance-minimalknowledge-integration-relevance-moderatescience-policy-interface-relevance-moderateboundary-work-relevance-moderatetransdisciplinarity-relevance-moderateinterdisciplinarity-relevance-moderatemultidisciplinarity-relevance-moderatecross-disciplinary-relevance-moderateintra-disciplinary-relevance-moderatedisciplinary-relevance-moderateparadigm-pluralism-relevance-minimalepistemological-pluralism-relevance-moderateontological-pluralism-relevance-minimalmethodological-pluralism-relevance-moderatetheoretical-pluralism-relevance-minimalconceptual-pluralism-relevance-moderatelinguistic-pluralism-relevance-minimalcultural-pluralism-relevance-minimalinstitutional-pluralism-relevance-minimalorganizational-pluralism-relevance-minimalsectoral-pluralism-relevance-minimalspatial-pluralism-relevance-moderatetemporal-pluralism-relevance-minimalscalar-pluralism-relevance-moderatehierarchical-pluralism-relevance-minimalheterarchical-pluralism-relevance-minimalmodular-pluralism-relevance-minimalintegrative-pluralism-relevance-moderatedifferential-pluralism-relevance-minimalcontextual-pluralism-relevance-moderatesituated-knowledge-relevance-moderatelocal-knowledge-relevance-moderatetraditional-knowledge-relevance-minimalindigenous-knowledge-relevance-minimalscientific-knowledge-relevance-highexpert-knowledge-relevance-moderatelay-knowledge-relevance-moderatetacit-knowledge-relevance-minimalexplicit-knowledge-relevance-moderatecodified-knowledge-relevance-moderateuncodified-knowledge-relevance-minimalformal-knowledge-relevance-moderateinformal-knowledge-relevance-moderatedocumented-knowledge-relevance-moderateundocumented-knowledge-relevance-minimalverified-knowledge-relevance-moderateunverified-knowledge-relevance-minimalpeer-reviewed-knowledge-relevance-moderategrey-literature-knowledge-relevance-moderateunpublished-knowledge-relevance-moderatepublished-knowledge-relevance-moderateprimary-knowledge-relevance-moderatesecondary-knowledge-relevance-moderatetertiary-knowledge-relevance-minimaloriginal-knowledge-relevance-moderatederived-knowledge-relevance-moderatesynthetic-knowledge-relevance-moderateanalytic-knowledge-relevance-moderateempirical-knowledge-relevance-hightheoretical-knowledge-relevance-moderatenormative-knowledge-relevance-minimalprescriptive-knowledge-relevance-minimaldescriptive-knowledge-relevance-highexplanatory-knowledge-relevance-moderatepredictive-knowledge-relevance-moderateunderstanding-relevance-highexplanation-relevance-moderatecontrol-relevance-minimalintervention-relevance-minimalmanipulation-relevance-minimalmodification-relevance-minimaladaptation-relevance-moderatemitigation-relevance-minimalprevention-relevance-minimalprotection-relevance-moderateconservation-relevance-moderaterestoration-relevance-minimalrecovery-relevance-minimalrehabilitation-relevance-minimalremediation-relevance-minimalreparation-relevance-minimalcompensation-relevance-minimaloffsetting-relevance-minimalsubstitution-relevance-minimalreplacement-relevance-minimalalternative-relevance-minimaloption-relevance-moderatechoice-relevance-moderatedecision-relevance-moderateaction-relevance-moderateinaction-relevance-minimalomission-relevance-minimalcommission-relevance-moderatenon-intervention-relevance-moderatelaissez-faire-relevance-minimalhands-on-relevance-moderatehands-off-relevance-minimalactive-management-relevance-minimalpassive-management-relevance-moderatereactive-management-relevance-minimalproactive-management-relevance-moderatestrategic-management-relevance-moderatetactical-management-relevance-minimaloperational-management-relevance-minimaltechnical-management-relevance-minimalmanagerial-management-relevance-minimaladministrative-management-relevance-minimalbureaucratic-management-relevance-minimalpolitical-management-relevance-minimaleconomic-management-relevance-minimalsocial-management-relevance-minimalcultural-management-relevance-minimalenvironmental-management-relevance-moderateecological-management-relevance-moderatesustainability-management-relevance-minimalresilience-management-relevance-minimalrisk-management-relevance-minimalcrisis-management-relevance-minimaldisaster-management-relevance-minimalconflict-management-relevance-minimalstakeholder-management-relevance-minimalinterest-management-relevance-minimalvalue-management-relevance-minimalissue-management-relevance-minimalproblem-management-relevance-moderatesolution-management-relevance-moderateopportunity-management-relevance-moderatethreat-management-relevance-minimalchallenge-management-relevance-moderateconstraint-management-relevance-minimalbarrier-management-relevance-minimalenabler-management-relevance-minimaldriver-management-relevance-minimalincentive-management-relevance-minimaldisincentive-management-relevance-minimalmotivation-management-relevance-minimaldemotivation-relevance-minimalsatisfaction-management-relevance-minimaldissatisfaction-relevance-minimalengagement-management-relevance-minimaldisengagement-relevance-minimalcommitment-management-relevance-minimalnon-commitment-relevance-minimalinvolvement-management-relevance-minimalnon-involvement-relevance-minimalparticipation-management-relevance-moderatenon-participation-relevance-minimalcollaboration-management-relevance-minimalnon-collaboration-relevance-minimalcooperation-management-relevance-minimalnon-cooperation-relevance-minimalcoordination-management-relevance-minimalnon-coordination-relevance-minimalintegration-management-relevance-minimaldisintegration-relevance-minimalfragmentation-relevance-minimalconsolidation-relevance-minimalcentralization-relevance-minimaldecentralization-relevance-minimalstandardization-relevance-minimalcustomization-relevance-minimalflexibility-management-relevance-minimalrigidity-relevance-minimaladaptability-management-relevance-moderatenon-adaptability-relevance-minimalinnovation-management-relevance-minimaltradition-management-relevance-minimalchange-management-relevance-moderatestability-management-relevance-moderatetransformation-management-relevance-minimaltransition-management-relevance-minimalevolution-management-relevance-moderaterevolution-management-relevance-minimalreform-management-relevance-minimalrestructuring-relevance-minimalreorganization-relevance-minimalreconfiguration-relevance-minimalredesign-relevance-minimalredevelopment-relevance-minimalregeneration-relevance-minimal,Monocrepidius suturalis
A click beetle species in the family Elateridae. Formerly classified under the genus Eleodes (family Tenebrionidae), this species was reclassified to Monocrepidius based on morphological and phylogenetic evidence. The species is characterized by a reddish-brown sutural stripe on dark elytra and occurs in grassland habitats of the Great Plains region.
Muellerianella
Muellerianella is a genus of delphacid planthoppers comprising seven described species. The genus is notable for its complex reproductive biology, including both biparentally reproducing sexual species and asexual gynogenetic (pseudogamous) triploid forms. Species within the genus are morphologically similar but ecologically differentiated, occupying distinct habitat niches and exhibiting species-specific host plant associations. The Muellerianella complex has been extensively studied as a model system for understanding ecological speciation, hybridization, and the maintenance of species boundaries in the face of incomplete reproductive isolation.
Nabis flavomarginatus
Broad Damsel Bug
Nabis flavomarginatus is a small predatory true bug in the family Nabidae, commonly known as the Broad Damsel Bug. It exhibits a Holarctic distribution spanning northern Europe, Siberia, Central Asia, East Asia, and North America including Alaska, Canada, and Greenland. The species inhabits wet, open grassland habitats with high proportions of grasses, sedges, and rushes, and shows a preference for cooler microclimates compared to other Nabinae. It is an effective predator in agricultural and natural systems, with cicadas documented as frequent prey.
Nascia
Nascia is a genus of grass moths in the family Crambidae, subfamily Pyraustinae. The genus was established by John Curtis in 1835 and contains three recognized species distributed across parts of Europe and North America. These are small to medium-sized moths associated with grassland habitats.
Neoclytus approximatus
Neoclytus approximatus is a longhorned beetle (Cerambycidae) described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1862. It is among the most uncommonly encountered longhorned beetles in North America, with a disjunct distribution across the Great Plains and scattered records from the eastern United States. The species' larval host plant remains unknown, making it one of the most elusive cerambycids on the continent.
Neoconocephalus ensiger
Sword-bearing Conehead, Swordbearer
Neoconocephalus ensiger is a katydid species in the conehead tribe Copiphorini, recognized by the male's elongated, sword-like ovipositor-like structure at the abdomen tip. Males produce loud, distinctive songs through stridulation of modified forewings. The species occurs in grassland and prairie habitats across eastern and central North America. It is primarily nocturnal and has been observed molting to adulthood at night near ultraviolet light sources.
Neoconocephalus retusus
Round-tipped Conehead
Neoconocephalus retusus, commonly known as the round-tipped conehead, is a species of katydid in the family Tettigoniidae. Adults range from 37 to 52 mm in length and are active during late summer and autumn. The species is found in the eastern United States and southern Canada, typically in wet grassy and weedy habitats.
Neoconocephalus robustus
robust conehead, crepitating conehead
Neoconocephalus robustus, commonly known as the robust conehead or crepitating conehead, is a North American katydid in the family Tettigoniidae. It is notable for producing one of the loudest insect songs on record, reaching 116 decibels at a peak frequency of 8 kHz—audible from 500 meters away even inside a moving vehicle with closed windows. The song has a whining quality at distance but becomes painful to hear at close range. This species belongs to the subfamily Conocephalinae, a group characterized by their elongated, cone-shaped heads.
Neodactria caliginosellus
Black Grass-veneer, Corn Root Webworm
Neodactria caliginosellus is a crambid moth known by two common names: black grass-veneer and corn root webworm. The species was described in 1860 and occurs across much of North America. Larvae are documented pests of turf grasses and corn. Adults inhabit grassy areas and agricultural fields.