Differential grasshopper

Taxonomy: The differential grasshopper (Melanoplus differentialis) is a member of the order Orthoptera and the family Acrididae. It is one of the most widespread and damaging grasshopper species found throughout the United States and parts of Northern Mexico, often reaching outbreak population levels.

Host plants: This species is highly polyphagous, meaning it feeds on a broad range of plant materials. Major agricultural hosts include corn, wheat, soybeans, alfalfa, and sorghum. When populations are high, they do not hesitate to consume garden vegetables, fruit trees, and various ornamental plants, causing significant economic losses.

Biology and lifecycle: The species overwinters in the egg stage, deposited in soil pods. Eggs begin hatching in late spring. The nymphs go through five developmental stages (instars) before reaching adulthood. The entire lifecycle is completed within a single generation per year, with adults remaining active throughout the summer until the first frost.

Damage and pest status: Both nymphs and adults are voracious feeders. They consume leaf tissue, often leaving only the midribs, and can strip stems entirely. Severe outbreaks result in complete crop defoliation, destruction of reproductive plant parts, and significant reduction in grain yield quality and quantity.

Management strategies: Controlling the differential grasshopper requires a proactive approach aimed at reducing population density early in the season:

• Tillage practices that disturb egg pods in the soil.
• Vegetation management along field margins to reduce favorable breeding sites.
• Scouting programs to identify high-density nymph populations early.
• Application of appropriate insecticides during the early nymphal stages to prevent significant crop loss.