Chrotogonus oxypterus

Chrotogonus oxypterus, commonly known as the surface grasshopper, is a pest belonging to the Pyrgomorphidae family. It is a widespread insect in various tropical and subtropical regions, recognized by its distinctive squat appearance and ability to blend perfectly with the soil surface, earning it the common name of surface grasshopper.

This pest is highly polyphagous and feeds on a wide range of agricultural crops. It is particularly devastating to early-stage crops such as cotton, wheat, sorghum, maize, and various legumes. By consuming foliage and succulent stems, the insects can cause significant gaps in crop stands, leading to substantial economic losses for farmers.

The life cycle of Chrotogonus oxypterus involves several nymphal stages that resemble the adults but lack developed wings. They are well-adapted to arid environments and lay egg pods in the upper soil layers. Their development rate is heavily influenced by soil temperature and moisture content, with populations often peaking during dry spells following the rainy season.

Damage to plants is characterized by ragged leaf edges, partial to total defoliation, and the destruction of the apical buds. Because these insects dwell primarily on the ground, they are often overlooked until the damage becomes severe. Their presence can drastically reduce the yield potential of young crops by inhibiting vegetative growth and inducing plant mortality.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is essential for controlling this pest. Recommended strategies include:

• Deep plowing to expose and destroy egg pods in the soil.
• Effective weed control to eliminate alternative food sources.
• Monitoring fields during the early germination stage.
• Application of contact insecticides when nymphal populations reach damaging levels.