Spur-throated Locust
Austracris guttulosa
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Type | Invertebrate |
| Group | |
| Biology | This species has a one year life cycle. Eggs are laid in the soil. Nymphs hatch from November through to February. Immature adults are found in autumn and winter. |
| Distinctive Markings | Larger than other locusts. They possess a spur between the front legs. |
| Taxonomy | |
|---|---|
| Phylum | Arthropoda |
| Class | Insecta |
| Order | Orthoptera |
| Family | Acrididae |
| Genus | Austracris |
| Species | guttulosa |
Major breeding areas include the Gulf region of northern Australia, southern Queensland, northern Western Australia and the north-west plains of New South Wales. Young adults will migrate and are often found in southern New South Wales, northern South Australia and in Victoria.
Source: Atlas of Living Australia
When the right rainfall conditions occur, this species forms plagues which can cause massive damage to agricultural crops.
| Interesting Facts | |
|---|---|
| Diet | Herbivore. Mainly grasses but also other plants, in particular Sorghum, Sunflowers and Soybeans. |
| Habitat | During winter, adults spend most of their time roosting in trees along water systems or in woodland adjacent to crops or grasslands. |
| Native Status | Native to Australia |