Variable grasshopper

Taxonomic position: The variable grasshopper (Celes variabilis) is a member of the order Orthoptera and the family Acrididae. It is widely distributed in steppe and semi-arid regions, where it thrives in dry conditions and open habitats, often becoming a significant problem for regional agriculture.

Crops and damage: As a polyphagous insect, Celes variabilis feeds on a variety of agricultural crops, including cereals, maize, sunflowers, and rangeland grasses. Both nymphs and adults cause damage by consuming foliage and stems, leading to severe defoliation and, in cases of high population density, total loss of crop biomass.

Biology and life cycle: The life cycle is characterized by incomplete metamorphosis. The species overwinters in the egg stage, which are laid in the soil in protective capsules called egg pods. Hatching occurs in spring, followed by several nymphal instars before reaching the adult stage, which is capable of flight and rapid dispersion throughout the fields.

• Deep tillage to bury and destroy egg pods in the soil.
• Application of contact or systemic insecticides based on monitoring thresholds.
• Monitoring the density of nymphs in the early season to apply targeted treatments.
• Maintaining field boundaries free of weeds to reduce nesting habitats.
• Utilizing biological control agents and supporting natural predators in the ecosystem.

Pest significance: Celes variabilis poses a serious threat during years with favorable dry weather conditions, which promote rapid population growth. The economic impact is linked to the insect's ability to migrate and feed voraciously, necessitating effective monitoring and timely interventions to minimize harvest losses.