Orchelimum vulgare

Orchelimum vulgare, otherwise known as the common meadow katydid, is a species of Orthoptera found in the central and eastern regions of North America. They are active from mid summer to fall.[2][3]

Orchelimum vulgare
Scientific classification
Kingdom:
Animalia
Phylum:
Arthropoda
Class:
Insecta
Order:
Orthoptera
Family:
Tettigoniidae
Genus:
Orchelimum
Species:
Orchelimum vulgare
Binomial name
Orchelimum vulgare [1]
(Scudder, S.H., 1862)

Distribution and Habitat

O. vulgare is distributed across much of North America. They prefer fields and low meadows, where they perch on clumps of grass. They adapt best in moderate temperature climates, and cannot handle extreme heat or humidity.[4]

Identification

O. vulgare can be characterized by their red eyes, green faces, and a distinctly curved ovipositor.[5] They have green bodies and brown legs that allow for them to camouflage themselves with their environment. Two black lines can be found on their dorsal shield. The size ranges from 22–40 mm with the females being larger than the males.[5][4]

Diet

This species is known to consume a variety of plant species. It has even been recorded eating other Orthoptera.[4]

Ecology

O. vulgare like most katydids, functions as a food source for other organisms.[4]

References
  1. Orphulella speciosa n.d.
  2. Harris, T.W. "Orechelimum vulgare".
  3. "Species Orchelimum vulgare - Common Meadow Katydid". Iowa State University.
  4. Rainey, Katherine. "Orchelimum vulgare".
  5. Capinera, John L.; Scott, Ralph D.; Walker, Thomas J. (2004). Field Guide to Grasshoppers, Katydids, and Crickets of the United States. United States of America: Cornell University Press. p. 179.
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