The Plains Lubber Grasshopper (Brachystola magna) is one of the largest grasshoppers in North America. It is flightless and relies on walking to move through grassland habitats.
Taxonomy and Classification
- Order: Orthoptera
- Family: Romaleidae
- Genus: Brachystola
- Species: Brachystola magna
Physical Description
- Length: 40–65 mm
- Color: Yellow, brown, or green with black markings
- Wings: Reduced and non-functional
Distribution and Habitat
- Great Plains of North America
- Prairies and grasslands
Behavior and Damage
Lubber grasshoppers feed on grasses and broadleaf plants and can occasionally damage crops.
Management and Prevention
- Encourage natural predators
- Maintain balanced grassland ecosystems
Conservation and Research
This species is studied as part of prairie ecosystem ecology.