Chrotogonus trachypterus

Systematic position: Chrotogonus trachypterus is a member of the Orthoptera order, specifically the family Pyrgomorphidae. Often referred to as a surface grasshopper, this insect is characterized by its dull, rugose body texture which provides excellent camouflage against soil, making it difficult to detect in the field.

Host plants: This pest is a polyphagous insect that causes significant damage to various agricultural crops. It is particularly known for attacking seedlings of cotton, wheat, alfalfa, pulses, and numerous vegetable crops. It thrives in arid and semi-arid regions, utilizing various wild grasses as alternative food sources.

Biology and life cycle: The life cycle involves egg, nymph, and adult stages. Females lay their eggs in the soil, forming egg pods. Development is heavily influenced by soil moisture and temperature levels. These grasshoppers often exhibit distinct diapause behaviors to survive extreme heat or dry seasons, allowing them to reappear rapidly when conditions improve.

Damage and economic significance: The economic damage is primarily observed during the germination and seedling stages. Both nymphs and adults consume foliage, stems, and growing points of young plants. Severe infestations can lead to massive crop losses, forcing farmers to replant entire fields due to the complete destruction of the primary vegetation cover.

• Implement deep plowing to disturb soil and destroy egg pods.
• Maintain weed-free fields and boundaries to reduce alternative food sources.
• Use systemic insecticides or seed treatments to protect seedlings during the vulnerable stage.
• Apply targeted chemical sprays when threshold levels of infestation are detected.
• Encourage natural biological controls including predatory birds and specialized entomopathogenic fungi.