Grasshopper

Scientific Name: Caelifera (suborder), commonly Acrididae (family)

Order & Family: Order: Orthoptera, Suborder: Caelifera, Family: Acrididae (most common type resembling the image)

Size: Typically 1 to 7 cm (0.4 to 2.8 inches) in length, though some species can be larger.

Grasshopper

Natural Habitat

Grasslands, meadows, fields, cultivated areas, and other habitats with abundant vegetation.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivorous, primarily feeding on grasses, leaves, and other plant matter. Some species may also consume crops.

Behavior Patterns

Known for their jumping ability, using their powerful hind legs to escape predators. They communicate through stridulation (rubbing body parts together to produce sound). Many are solitary, but some species can form large swarms, especially locusts (a type of grasshopper).

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Large swarms (locusts) can cause significant damage to crops, leading to agricultural losses and famine in some regions. Benefits: Serve as a food source for various predators (birds, reptiles, mammals), contributing to ecosystem balance. They are also consumed by humans in some cultures.

Identified on: 9/19/2025