Grasshoppers, Locusts, and Crickets of the World

Grasshoppers, locusts, crickets, bush crickets, and katydids make up the insect order known as Orthoptera. Although there are around 30,000 Orthoptera species worldwide, many people pay them little attention, and even scientists know relatively little about them. Yet the world of Orthoptera is both fascinating and diverse.

In this richly illustrated book, leading researchers from around the globe detail various aspects of these insects, including their evolution, life cycles, and mating behavior. The book presents interesting facts and stories about species such as monkey hoppers, Cooloola monsters, king crickets, wetas, and sandgropers. It also discusses conservation efforts and the relationship between humans and these remarkable insects.

Key Features

• Comprehensive exploration of the Orthoptera order and its more than 30,000 species.
• Details on evolution, fossil record, and systematics of the group.
• Insights into life cycles, ecology, behavior, and bioacoustics.
• Coverage of global diversity by geographic region.
• Stories about unusual species such as monkey hoppers and wetas.
• Discussion of Orthoptera’s role in human culture: pests, food, and pets.
• Analysis of conservation and threats to Orthoptera populations.
• Richly illustrated with content from leading international experts.

Contents

• Orthoptera in Space and Time: fossil record, evolution, and systematics.
• Biology of Orthoptera: life cycle, ecology, and bioacoustics.
• Diversity of Orthoptera: distribution by geographic regions around the world.
• Orthoptera and Humans: locusts, Orthoptera as food, as pets, and conservation.