The term "Barbary Grasshopper" refers to the species Calliptamus barbarus, a short-horned grasshopper found in the Palearctic region, which includes parts of Europe, Africa, and Asia. It is known by other names like "Barbarian Grasshopper" and is a short-winged grasshopper that typically lives in dry, grassy areas.
Key Characteristics:
Scientific Name:
Calliptamus barbarus
Habitat:
Dry, grassy environments in the Palearctic region.
Appearance:
It is a reddish-brown grasshopper with black dots on its outer wings, though coloration can vary geographically. It has blue-brown antennae and legs with purple tarsi, according to one description of a different species with a similar size.
Wings:
It has short wings and cannot fly, according to one source, though another source describes it as having "red-winged" characteristics, suggesting it might possess flight wings that are not fully developed.
Behavior:
It tends to be a solitary insect and doesn't typically cause significant crop damage, preferring broadleaf plants over crops.
Defense:
It might produce a noxious foam or liquid when threatened, as seen in other grasshopper species.
Distribution and Life Cycle:
Location:
Found throughout the Palearctic region, including countries like Portugal and Spain.
Life Cycle:
It overwinters as an egg, which hatches in the spring, leading to adulthood in August.
