mormon cricket
Noun: 1. A large insect: A "Mormon cricket" is a large, dark-colored, wingless insect that resembles a cricket or a katydid. It is not a true cricket but belongs to the katydid family. It is known for forming massive, destructive swarms in the arid regions of the western United States.
The term "Mormon cricket" is used specifically to refer to this particular species of insect (Anabrus simplex). It is often discussed in contexts related to agriculture, ecology, and history due to its impact as a pest. - The fields were devastated by a swarm of Mormon crickets. - Scientists are studying the migration patterns of the Mormon cricket.
- The name "Mormon cricket" originates from the 19th century when swarms of these insects threatened the crops of Mormon settlers in Utah, an event later referred to as the "Miracle of the Gulls."
- In scientific and agricultural reports, it is commonly referenced as a significant pest species.
- Anabrus simplex: The scientific (Latin) name for the Mormon cricket.
- Katydid: The broader family of insects to which the Mormon cricket belongs.
- Pest: A general term for a destructive insect, which accurately describes the Mormon cricket in swarm conditions.
- Insect pest (in the context of agriculture)
- Swarming katydid (descriptive synonym)
There are no common idioms or phrasal verbs specifically using "Mormon cricket." It is primarily used as a standard noun.
- large dark wingless cricket-like katydid of arid parts of western United States