Locustidae
Definition
Noun 1. A family of insects: Locustidae is the former taxonomic family name for a group of insects commonly known as short-horned grasshoppers, which includes species that exhibit swarming behavior and are termed true locusts. (Note: In modern taxonomy, this group is often classified within the family Acrididae.)
Usage
- The term is used primarily in formal, scientific, or historical entomological contexts to classify and describe certain grasshopper species.
- It specifically refers to grasshoppers with short antennae, distinguishing them from long-horned grasshoppers (like katydids).
- The key characteristic of some members of this group is their ability to change behavior and form massive, destructive swarms under certain conditions.
Examples
- Scientific Classification: "The migratory locust, , was once placed within the family ."
- Descriptive Context: "Researchers studied the swarming behavior of insects in the family."
- Historical Reference: "Older entomology texts may classify grasshoppers under ."
Advanced Usage
- Taxonomic Note: In contemporary scientific literature, the family name Acrididae is more commonly used. "Locustidae" is often seen as a synonym or a former classification. Therefore, you might encounter the phrase: "Species formerly classified under are now typically placed in the family ."
Variants and Related Words
- Locust (n): The common name for a swarming, short-horned grasshopper, especially one of the species known for causing agricultural damage. (e.g., "A cloud of locusts descended on the crops.")
- Acrididae (n): The modern taxonomic family name that encompasses short-horned grasshoppers and locusts.
- Acridid (n): A member of the family Acrididae; a short-horned grasshopper.
Synonyms
- Short-horned grasshoppers
- True locusts (for the swarming species within the group)
Related Terms (Conceptual)
- Swarm (n/v): A large, dense group of insects, especially locusts, moving together. This is the key behavior associated with pestilential locust species.
- Gregarious phase: The behavioral and physiological state of a locust when it forms swarms, as opposed to the solitary phase.
- Orthoptera (n): The larger insect order that includes grasshoppers, locusts, crickets, and katydids. Locustidae/Acrididae is a family within this order.
Noun
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short-horned grasshoppers; true locusts
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