Non-swarming
Guides
Schistocerca pallens
bird grasshopper
Schistocerca pallens is a large bird grasshopper distributed throughout tropical America. Unlike its close relative Schistocerca cancellata, it lacks locust phase polymorphism and does not form swarms even under crowded laboratory conditions. It remains capable of reaching densities high enough to cause significant agricultural damage, particularly to sugar cane and other crops. The species serves as a natural host for the entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium flavoviride, which has been investigated for biological control potential.