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The Differential Grasshopper (Melanoplus differentialis (Thomas, 1865))
During summer across Texas landscapes, from urban gardens to agricultural fields, one of North America’s larger grasshopper species catches attention with its distinctive appearance. The Differential Grasshopper (Melanoplus differentialis) displays a combination of size and markings that make it particularly noticeable among regional insects.
Physical Description
M. differentialis exhibits sexual dimorphism in size, a characteristic seen in many grasshopper species. Females reach 1.4-1.8 inches (35-45 millimeters) in length, while males measure 1.1-1.5 inches (28-39 millimeters). Their bodies display an olive-brown to yellowish-brown base color marked with black patterns that can vary in intensity and arrangement. The hind legs bear distinctive chevron-shaped black markings on their outer surface.
When viewed from the side, these insects show a characteristic vertical face profile. Their wings extend beyond the tip of the abdomen when at rest. Males can be distinguished not only by their smaller size but also by the upward curve of their abdomen tip.
Life Cycle
The annual cycle of Melanoplus differentialis begins in late summer and fall when females deposit egg pods in the soil. Each pod contains between 50-170 eggs that remain dormant through winter. As spring temperatures rise, nymphs emerge and begin their development. These young grasshoppers typically pass through five developmental stages, though sometimes six, before reaching adult form in summer.
Habitat and Distribution
These grasshoppers are found throughout the central and western United States, with their range extending from southern Canada through the United States into Mexico. They thrive in areas combining low and tall vegetation, particularly in agricultural fields, pastures, and zones with mixed plant growth. In Texas, they appear in both rural and urban settings where suitable vegetation exists.
Diet
The documented food sources of Melanoplus differentialis include:
- Broadleaf plants
- Agricultural crops
- Garden vegetables
- Weedy vegetation
- Various grasses
Distinguishing Features
Key identification characteristics include:
- Larger size compared to other grasshopper species
- Chevron-shaped black markings on hind legs
- Vertical face profile
- Wings extending beyond abdomen tip
- Olive to yellowish-brown coloration
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