Black-sided Pygmy Grasshopper
Tettigidea lateralis
Identification 5
Identification of pygmy grasshoppers can be difficult because they have variable color patterns and structural details are small. This species is 9-16 mm, larger than most other pygmy grasshoppers. A common color pattern is dark sides with a cream dorsal surface, but other color patterns exist. Males often have a lower white face. The pronotum in pygmy grasshoppers is greatly expanded to extend to the rear to the tip of of the abdomen. The most important character for identifying the Black-sided Pygmy Grasshopper is to notice that the pronotum extends forward a bit onto the head, appearing a bit like a turtle neck or a shirt that is "riding up." This may seem subtle, but is the easiest way to distinguish this species from other pygmy grasshoppers. The difference will become more apparent when compared to other pygmy grasshoppers.
Resources 5
Bland, R.G. 2003. The Orthoptera of Michigan – Biology, Keys, and Descriptions of Grasshoppers, Katydids, and Crickets. Michigan State University Extension, Extension Bulletin E-2815. https://archive.lib.msu.edu/DMC/Ag.%20Ext.%202007-Chelsie/PDF/e2815.pdf
Occurrence 5
Statewide. Knutson (1937) reported this species from 24 counties. Common from May through August, perhaps declining some in mid-summer. Also can be seen any month except the coldest months.
Habitat 5
Variable. Often in sandy or mossy areas near wetlands or woodland areas, but can be found far from water.
Sources and Credits
- (c) William Hull, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by William Hull
- (c) Erika Mitchell, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by Erika Mitchell
- (c) Heidi Eaton, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by Heidi Eaton
- (c) Sam Kieschnick, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Sam Kieschnick
- (c) Tyler Grant, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA)
