|
SPECIFIC GROUPS [continued]
|
Figure 11. The
developmental stages of the grasshopper
Grasshopper Eggs in Soil
Grasshopper Nymphs
Grasshopper Adult |
|
a. Adults with two pairs of wings. The forewings are
leathery with many netlike veins. The under wings are membranous
and fan-shaped when expanded. |
b. The adults are often 1 inch long or longer, with
appendages at the end of the abdomen called cerci. |
c. Orthoptera have simple metamorphosis, with wingless
nymphs that resemble the adults. |
d. Both adults and nymphs have chewing mouthparts and
cause damage. |
e. Hind legs of many species (with the exception of
walking sticks and cockroaches) are enlarged for jumping. |
Common orthopterans found in Arizona include the Indian
house cricket. This introduced insect is known for its tendency to
enter houses. The males produce a shrill chirping noise to attract
females. The adults and nymphs are light tan with darker brown
spots and bands. |
The infamous sewer roach (American cockroach) is the
topic of conversation each summer. These cockroaches build up to
great numbers in the sewers and then enter homes through drains. |
Figure 12. Different
termite forms found in a single colony
Winged Reproductive
 |
|
a. These highly social insects have different forms or
castes that perform different functions, such as workers, soldiers
and queens. |
b. Although they are sometimes called "white ants,"
they are not ants at all. They have thick waists and are white or
light brown in color (ants have thin waists and are often black,
red or yellow.) |
c. Termites have thin straight antennae which look like
a chain of beads. Ants have elbowed antennae. |
d. Termites have simple metamorphosis, but the nymphs
can become different forms. |
e. They have chewing mouthparts to chew on wood and
other plant materials. |
The injurious termites are generally placed in two
groups, the dry-wood and subterranean types. Both feed on wood and
wood products. The dry-wood termites nest exclusively in wood;
whereas the subterranean termites nest in soil and must maintain a
connection with the soil in order to survive. Both can be found in
large numbers in sound structures where they may do considerable
damage if not detected and controlled. |
|
a. Elongate insects which resemble certain types of
beetles, except for the presence of a pair of forceps-like curved
appendages on the rear of their abdomen. The forceps are used for
defense and prey handling, and do not harm humans. |
Earwig |
b. They have chewing mouthparts. |
c. The adults have short, hardened outer wings and
membranous inner wings. |
d. Earwigs have simple metamorphosis and the nymphs
resemble the adults. |
e. Earwigs are nocturnal and hide during the day. They
do not enter ears, although they were occasionally found in
powdered wigs |
|
The most common species is the European earwig. It is
sometimes a pest of gardens, ornamentals, and small trees but it
can also be beneficial because it sometimes preys upon other
insects. In Arizona, they may enter houses, but normally they hide
in dark, moist areas such as under potted plants. |
