Community identification
Lubber grasshopper nymph (early instar)
Romalea microptera (representative of genus)
- Order & Family
- Orthoptera: Romaleidae
- Size
- 8 mm to 15 mm as neonates
Natural Habitat
Fields, gardens, and open woodlands across the southeastern US
Diet & Feeding
Herbivorous; feeds on a wide variety of plants including weeds, ornamentals, and vegetable crops.
Behavior Patterns
Nymphs often cluster together in groups for protection during early stages. They are slow-moving and develop through several molts before reaching adulthood.
Risks & Benefits
They can be agricultural pests by consuming large amounts of foliage. They have chemical defenses (secreting foul-smelling froth) but are harmless to humans beyond potential garden damage.