What Do Grasshoppers Eat
Grasshoppers are insects that are distantly related to crickets and katydids, for which they are often confused. They are known for their powerful hind legs that allow them to make a powerful leap and many species of grasshoppers have wings for flying. There are about 8,000 different species of grasshoppers, but it is believed that they are many still yet to be formally identified. A species of grasshopper that can change color and swarms to travel many miles is known as a locust. If you have ever wondered what these insects eat, keep reading to find out.
What do grasshoppers eat?
Grasshoppers are herbivores and prefer to eat grasses, leaves and cereal crops (such as maize and wheat). Some species will also eat bark, flowers, fruit and seeds. They will eat many different sources of plant matter and often feed on different food throughout a single day. However, at least one species of grasshopper will only feed on a single species of plant!
Did you know?
A plague of grasshoppers or locusts can cause problems for farmers because they can decimate a crop in a short period of time. Locusts are generally considered to be more destructive to crops, because they form a large swarm and can travel a great distance in a single day.
Locusts and grasshoppers can both be eaten by humans. In some cultures they are even considered to be a delicacy!
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