Read about related Orthoptera by using the "Forward" and "Backward" device icons. Some Orthoptera are among the most destructive of insects, while others are most revered for their songs. This Order of insects include grasshoppers, locusts, crickets, and katydids.

Spur-Throated Grasshopper Melanoplus spp. Orthoptera Acrididea This Melanoplus grasshopper from the Owens Valley in California was baking in the early morning sun prior to a busy day of plant eating. These hoppers have brightly colored underwings and the males make a buzzing noise by rubbing a strip of tiny spines on their hind femur against the fore wing. Notice the large compound eyes and greatly enlarge and herringbone patterned hind femur used for leaping. These hoppers lay their eggs underground. View the Index of Orders View Complete Photo List Ants, Bees & Wasps Butterflies & Moths Flies Beetles Lacewings & Antlions Leafhoppers & Cicadas True Bugs Cockroaches Praying Mantids Grasshoppers, Crickets Walking Sticks Dragonflies & Damselflies Mayflies Non-Insects