12-6-2019 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - SHORT HORNED GRASSHOPPER (Genus Calliptamus)

Calliptamus is a genus of short-horned grasshoppers in the family Acrididae, widely distributed across Europe, Asia, and Africa. Members are often considered significant agricultural pests due to their polyphagous nature and ability to form large, damaging swarms. 

Physical Appearance: These grasshoppers are typically medium-sized with a basic coloration that varies from gray to brownish-reddish, often marked with small dark spots. A key identification feature is the reddish or pinkish coloration on the hind wings and the inner side of the hind femora, which is especially visible during flight.

Sexual Dimorphism: The genus exhibits significant sexual dimorphism; females are considerably larger than males. Males typically grow up to 14–26 mm, while females can reach 21–40 mm in length.

Habitat and Distribution: Species of Calliptamus thrive in arid, sunny areas and fixed dunes. Their range extends across the northern Palearctic realm to Japan, the Mediterranean Basin, and Africa.

Diet and Pest Status: They are polyphagous, meaning they feed on a variety of plants, with a strong preference for legumes, but they also infest cereals and grapevines. Species like the Italian locust (C. italicus) can exhibit gregarious behavior and form swarms (locust plagues) under certain conditions, causing substantial economic losses to crops.