Short-horned grasshoppers in the family Acrididae are classic grasshoppers, with robust bodies, short antennae, and powerful hind legs for jumping. They are important herbivores in many ecosystems but can become serious agricultural pests, especially when some species form swarming locusts.
- Typical members of Acrididae have short, stout antennae ("short-horned"), distinguishing them from crickets and katydids.
- They consume a wide variety of crops and weeds; outbreaks can cause extensive damage to cereals, vegetables, and pasture.
- Some species exhibit phase polymorphism; under crowded conditions, they change behavior and morphology, becoming locusts capable of devastating plagues.
The short antennae ('short-horned') are a hallmark of Acrididae, separating them from katydids and crickets.
Representative Genera and Species
Several genera in Acrididae contain important grasshopper species, including some notorious pests:
| Genus | Example Species | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Melanoplus | Melanoplus differentialis | Differential grasshopper; major pest |
| Schistocerca | Schistocerca americana | American grasshopper; includes locusts |
| Locusta | Locusta migratoria | Migratory locust; classic swarming species |
| Chorthippus | Chorthippus brunneus | Common field grasshopper in Europe |
- Melanoplus species have strong jumping legs and a seasonal life cycle aligned with crops.
- Schistocerca includes both solitary and gregarious (locust) forms, with some species capable of long-distance migration.
- Locusta migratoria undergoes dramatic changes in color and behavior during swarming outbreaks.
- Most Acrididae are well camouflaged as nymphs and adults, making detection in fields difficult.
Melanoplus, Schistocerca, and Locusta are key Acrididae genera; Gryllus (crickets) and Tettigonia (katydids) are not.
Acrididae are known as short-horned grasshoppers.
Life Cycle and Adaptations
Acrididae grasshoppers undergo incomplete metamorphosis—eggs hatch into nymphs that resemble adults but lack wings, then mature through several molts. They are usually well adapted to their habitats through cryptic coloration and strong hind legs for escape.
- Female grasshoppers deposit eggs in soil pods; some species lay hundreds per season.
- Nymphs typically molt 5–6 times, gradually developing wing pads.
- Most Acrididae are mainly active and feed during the day (diurnal).
- Swarming locusts can travel great distances, consuming almost all green vegetation in their path.
Acrididae undergo incomplete metamorphosis, with nymphs resembling adults.
Acrididae use powerful hind legs, cryptic coloration, and soil egg pods, but do not have aquatic nymphs or bioluminescence.
Acrididae undergo incomplete metamorphosis, where juveniles (nymphs) resemble adults and gradually develop.
Short antennae, powerful jumping legs, and an herbivorous diet are key traits of Acrididae.
Locusta is the genus of grasshoppers capable of forming destructive locust swarms.
Conclusion
The Acrididae family includes the true grasshoppers—important insects with powerful legs, short antennae, and a sometimes notorious role as crop pests and locusts.
- Acrididae are the short-horned grasshoppers, with typical genera like Melanoplus, Schistocerca, and Locusta.
- They undergo incomplete metamorphosis, feeding as voracious herbivores in many ecosystems.
- Some species can transform into swarming locusts, causing devastating plagues.
Certain Acrididae species become gregarious and form swarming locusts in crowded conditions.
Acrididae have short antennae, strong hind legs, and are herbivores.