Grasshoppers
Damage caused by the grasshoppers
Both nymphs and adults of grasshoppers are foliage feeders that can cause serious damage to many field crops, forage crops, fruit crops, ornamental plants as well as turfgrass. In case of severe infestation, grasshoppers can completely defoliate the plants that in turn can tremendously reduce crop yields.
Facts (show all)
- Common names
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- The grasshoppers
- Scientific name
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- Schistocerca americana
- Identification
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Adults: Grasshopper adults are vary in color depend upon their species, can be dark green to gray looking. They have specialized hind legs with enlarged femurs adapted for quick jumping. Their bodies are strong with short antennae and they are good flyers.
Eggs: Eggs of grasshoppers are creamy and oval in shape.
Nymphs: Nymphs of grasshopper resemble their parents but they are small and green to gray in color. Like parents, they also have jumping types of hind legs.
Pupae: No pupal stage.
- Biology
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Grasshoppers generally lay eggs in the upper layer of soil in undisturbed areas in the late summer through early fall. These eggs overwinter and start hatching into small nymphs when temperature begins warming up in early spring. Newly hatched nymphs start feeding on the host foliage. They can also move quickly from one field to other fields in search of food. While feeding, they develop through 5- 6 stages and become adults. Under favourable conditions, grasshoppers can complete one generation in a year.
- Organic Control of the grasshoppers
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- Following beneficial bugs and plant products are used for organic control of the grasshoppers
- Pathogenic protozoa
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- Nolo Bait - Nosema locustae
