Research-model-organism
Guides
Chortophaga viridifasciata viridifasciata
Greenstriped Grasshopper, Northern Green-striped Locust
The greenstriped grasshopper is a medium-sized bandwinged species widely distributed across North America, extending into Central America. Northern populations are univoltine, overwintering as late-instar nymphs and maturing in early spring, while southern populations may produce two or more generations annually. Adults exhibit strong sexual dimorphism in coloration: most females are green, most males are brown. The species is a strong flier with long wings extending beyond the abdomen, and males produce crepitation during flight. Though abundant in the eastern United States, populations remain patchy in western regions where the species is restricted to moist microhabitats.
Hyalophora
Giant Silk Moths, Silkmoths
Hyalophora is a genus of giant silk moths in the family Saturniidae, containing some of the largest and most visually striking moths in North America. The genus includes the cecropia moth (H. cecropia), North America's largest native moth, along with several other notable species such as the Columbia silkmoth and Glover's silkmoth. Adults are characterized by their large size, broad wings with distinctive eyespot patterns, and reduced mouthparts—they do not feed. Larvae are equally impressive, with bright coloration and prominent tubercles or spines. The genus was established by James Duncan and John O. Westwood in 1841.