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06-03-2023

New grasshopper species named after Willie Nelson

The bountiful region of central Texas, already renowned for its diverse biological landscape, has just revealed an even more astonishing secret. The diligent efforts of Dr. JoVonn Hill, Director of the Mississippi Entomological Museum (MEM) at Mississippi State University, and his team have led to the discovery of this incredible revelation after conducting scientific expeditions in the area for the past five years.

Unveiling an extraordinary treasure trove, the team successfully discovered seven distinct species of flightless grasshoppers that had not been previously identified. Six out of these seven species are endemic to the Edwards Plateau, a stark testimony to the exceptional biodiversity this region holds.

Honoring legendary Texas musicians

In homage to the rich musical heritage of Texas, Dr. Hill chose to name two of these newfound grasshopper species after the legendary musicians Willie Nelson and Jerry Jeff Walker. His intent, he explains, was to honor their “immense contributions” and eternalize the lasting legacy of these musicians within the biodiversity of Texas.

“Melanoplus nelsoni and Melanoplus walkeri, the newly named species, symbolize the enduring impact of these musicians and their intrinsic connection to Texas,” said Dr. Hill.

Akin to the sentiments expressed by Willie Nelson himself, Dr. Hill admits that after these extensive years of field studies, he too carries “a little Texas in [his] soul.” His personal connection to Texas, as well as his scientific journey, was documented in his study recently published in the academic journal, ZooKeys.

In regards to Melanoplus walkeri, Dr. Hill recalls the significant influence of Walker’s music on his team during their field explorations. According to him, Walker’s songs such as Hill Country Rain, Leavin’ Texas, and Sangria Wine have been the source of joy and positivity while journeying between field sites and have greatly contributed to the overall experience of the Edwards Plateau.

With the study additionally revealing the close proximity of the newly discovered species to the location of one of Walker’s most influential albums, the bond between art, science, and nature seems to become even more apparent.

Paying tribute to Comanche and Tonkawa tribes

In another heartening gesture, the team pays tribute to the rich cultural heritage of the Comanche and Tonkawa tribes, the original inhabitants of the region, by naming two species, Melanoplus commanche and Melanoplus tonkawa.

“These designations are an acknowledgement of the tribes’ significant historical and cultural contribution to the region,” said Dr. Hill. 

“These seven newly described species, along with two preexisting ones, form a cohesive species group, which spotlights their shared characteristics and evolutionary relationships.”

According to Dr. Hill, the discovery of this new species group adds substantial value to our understanding of the diverse ecosystems prevalent in central Texas. He further asserts that these findings accentuate the ecological distinctiveness of the region.

Dr. Hill and his colleagues at the Mississippi Entomological Museum continue to reaffirm their commitment to the exploration and understanding of science, the conservation of biodiversity, and inspiring a sense of wonder and appreciation for the intricacies of the natural world. The unearthing of these seven flightless grasshopper species is just another testament to their dedication.

More about grasshoppers

Grasshoppers are insects that belong to the order Orthoptera, which also includes crickets and katydids. They are typically characterized by their powerful hind legs adapted for jumping, wings for flying, and a body structure featuring a head, thorax, and abdomen. Grasshoppers are most commonly recognized for their ability to produce sounds by rubbing their hind legs against their wings, a process known as stridulation.

Physical Characteristics

Grasshoppers are usually green, brown, or grey, which aids in camouflage within their environment, although some tropical species can be brightly colored. They have a pair of large compound eyes for good vision, two antennae that are typically shorter than their body, and a mouth adapted for biting and chewing vegetation.

Adult grasshoppers have two sets of wings. The front pair is narrow and hard, serving to protect the broader and more flexible hind wings. The hind legs are large and muscular, enabling them to leap distances many times their body length.

Life Cycle

Grasshoppers undergo incomplete metamorphosis in their life cycle. This cycle begins with eggs, which are laid in the ground or on vegetation. When these hatch, they produce nymphs – smaller, wingless versions of the adult grasshoppers. These nymphs will then shed their exoskeletons multiple times in a process known as molting, growing larger each time until they become adults. Unlike complete metamorphosis seen in insects like butterflies, there is no pupal stage in a grasshopper’s life cycle.

Diet and Habitat

Grasshoppers are primarily herbivores, feeding on a wide range of plants. Some species are known to be more selective, feeding on single plant types, while others have a more varied diet. However, under extreme conditions, some grasshoppers may resort to cannibalism.

These insects are found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, forests, grasslands, and agricultural fields, basically anywhere with ample vegetation for food. They are found worldwide except for extremely cold regions like the poles.

Ecological Role and Human Impact

Grasshoppers play a significant role in ecosystems. They serve as a food source for various animals, including birds, reptiles, rodents, and other insects. Through their feeding habits, they also contribute to the cycling of nutrients in ecosystems.

On the downside, they can become agricultural pests, especially in the form of locust swarms. Locusts are a type of grasshopper known for their swarming behavior, which can lead to significant crop damage and contribute to famine.

Cultural Significance

Grasshoppers have cultural importance in many societies. They have been symbols of good luck, abundance, and freedom in various cultures. In some regions, they are also utilized as a food source, contributing to the practice of entomophagy (the consumption of insects).

Overall, while they may seem like simple creatures, grasshoppers are fascinating insects with complex behaviors and significant roles in their ecosystems.

Image Credit: JoVonn Hill

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