Morphological-group
Guides
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.