Common Grasshoppers in Indiana
The state of Indiana has a diverse range of grasshopper species, many of which migrate from Southern states. Grasshoppers are scientifically classified as insects of the suborder Caelifera and order Orthoptera. Grasshoppers are distinguished from bush-crickets and katydids by the short size of grasshopper antennae. Katydids and bush-crickets are also colloquially referred to as "long-horned grasshoppers." Does this Spark an idea?
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Carolina Grasshopper
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Carolina grasshoppers are one of the most common in North America and are found in every state. All grasshoppers are herbivores and the Carolina grasshopper has a diet of plants and grass. The female grasshoppers are smaller than the males and both can fly, though their pattern of flight is an erratic one.
Northern Grasshopper
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The northern grasshopper, with the scientific name Melanoplus borealis borealis, is common throughout North America. The species lives in mountainous as well as lowland areas. They inhabitant a great range of climates, from arctic tundra to the southern U.S. The species' long wings allow it to fly and disperse great distances. Their diet consists of a variety of grasses.
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Differential Grasshopper
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Although they are most commonly found in the southern U.S., the differential grasshopper lives in Indiana as well. The grasshoppers spend the winter in egg form underground and emerge during warmer months. Adult differential grasshoppers are brown to olive green and yellow. In large numbers, their eating habits can be damaging to plant life.
Kiowa Grasshopper
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The Kiowa grasshopper is common throughout North America and primarily occupies sparse grassland areas. The coloration of the Kiowa is normally tan and occasionally pale green. This species has an economic impact due to its appetite for high-quality blue grama grass.
Redlegged Grasshopper
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The redlegged grasshopper, with their scientific name Melanoplus femurrubrum, is found in most of North America except for higher altitudes and colder northern areas. With their adept flying abilities, the redlegged grasshoppers can cover large areas of land in their short life time. Their diet consists of a variety of grasses.
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References
- Photo Credit Jeffrey Hamilton/Lifesize/Getty Images
