Entomology
Grasshoppers belong to the order Orthoptera and are known for their powerful jumping ability. with over 10,000 species these insects range from .25 to over 2.5 inches in length and can be green, brown, or olive colored for camouflage. Their distinctive features include:
- Large, powerful hind legs adapted for jumping
- Two pairs of wings (forewings are narrow and tough, hindwings are broad and flexible)
- Elongated body with three segments: head, thorax, and abdomen
- Strong mandibles for chewing vegetation
- Long antennae
- Large compound eyes
Reproduction Cycle
Aphids have a complex life cycle that can include both sexual and asexual reproduction:
- Eggs: laid in the the mothers will coat the eggs in a sticky substance to protect them over winter
- nymphs: Constisting of 5 to 6 stages that last 5 to 10 weeks this is when the grasshopper will molt it skin and grow wings.
- Adult: Once an adult the grasshopper will die of buy late fall when temps die down
Social Aspects
Mostly a solitary insect there are times that can trigger a swarm event. Their social behaviors include:
- Antagonistic relationships with other grasshoppers
- They use sounds (stridulation) for mating calls
- During swarm (gregarious) behavior serotonin levels will increase
Treatment Options
- REgualar application of Diatomaceous earth
- Introduce natural predators (Chickens and wild birds)
- Apply insecticidal soap
- Use neem oil
- Prune regularly
