Grasshopper

Scientific Name: Caelifera

Order & Family: Order: Orthoptera, Suborder: Caelifera

Size: Typically 1 to 7 cm (0.4 to 2.8 inches) in length, depending on the species.

Grasshopper

Natural Habitat

Grasslands, meadows, fields, and other vegetated areas worldwide.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivorous, feeding primarily on grasses, leaves, and other plant material. Some species are polyphagous and can feed on a wide variety of plants, while others are more specialized.

Behavior Patterns

Grasshoppers are known for their strong jumping ability, used to escape predators. Many species produce sounds by rubbing their hind legs against their forewings or abdomen (stridulation). They are generally solitary but can form swarms (locusts) under certain conditions, causing significant agricultural damage.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Large swarms of certain grasshopper species, known as locusts, can devastate crops and agricultural land, leading to significant economic losses and sometimes famine. Benefits: They serve as an important food source for various animals, including birds, reptiles, and small mammals. They also play a role in nutrient cycling by consuming plant material.

Identified on: 10/12/2025