GRACEFUL GRASSHOPPER
Melanoplus gracilis
SHORT-HORNED GRASSHOPPERS (Acrididae)
This grasshopper – the image is of a male – is less than 3/4 inch (20 mm) long. The members of this genus are difficult to identify from images alone. But this one was identified by David J. Ferguson, an expert volunteer at BugGuide.
This grasshopper was found in Mormon Hollow (FF) in August. Its abundance is yet unknown.
This species was first identified in 1876 by L. Brenner from West Point, Nebraska, based on specimens collected in Omaha. It was first named Pezotettix gracilis, but later changed to Melanoplus gracilis. Another common name for this species is Slender Spur-throat Grasshopper.
Disclaimer: The content of NatureSearch is provided by dedicated volunteer Naturalists of Fontenelle Forest who strive to provide the most accurate information available. Contributors of the images retain their copyrights. The point of contact for this page is: Loren Padelford.