Synonyms and other taxonomic changes
Chortophaga Genus Group D. Otte, 1984
tribe Chortophagini D. Otte, 1995
tribe Macherocerini D. Otte, 1995
Explanation of Names
Tribe Macherocerini is grouped here for convenience. The single genus and species may belong with the Chortophagini, or it may be distinct enough to remain in its own tribe. A recent molecular study places Machaerocera mexicana close to Encoptolopus and Chortophaga, and there are some notable similarities in morphology, habitat preference, and behavior between Machaerocera and Chortophaga.
See M. Fries, W. Chapco, & D. Contreras, 2007, 'A Molecular Phylogenetic Analysis of the Oedipodinae and their Intercontinental Relationships', Journal of Orthoptera Research, 16(2): 115-125.
Identification
A small group, probably very old, and difficult to characterize. Most similar to certain Eurasian Groups, but sharing some similarities with the Arphiini. Many traits are characteristic of the group, but not unique to it. Most species are rather smooth (most noticeable exception is Machaerocera, which, while not smooth, is not strongly sculptured nor roughened). In most species (but not Machaerocera nor Shotwellia) the mid-dorsal ridge on the pronotum is obvious and cut only once (sometimes barely); in the two exceptions it is low, and cut/notched three times. On the under side of the thorax, the middle space between the lobes of the metasternum (defined by sutures forming a geometric pattern) is narrow, and noticeably narrower than the equivalent space on the mesasternum. Most species have the fastigium (area between and in front of the eyes on top) narrow, deeply sulcate, with little sculpturing besides the ridges defining either side; often this area is projected well in front of the eyes. Antennae are often thick. Green is not an unusual body color in many of the species. There is in most species a diagonal line dividing the color pattern of the eyes. The wings of most species are clear, often yellowish, with at most a cloudy shadow of a dark band or border (bright blue basally, black apically in Machaerocera). Most species have an obvious darkened "stigma" at the front edge of the hind wings. Many species can crepitate (buzz) in flight, but apparently not Machaerocera, Shotwellia, nor the Encoptolophus subgracillis species group. All species favor moist meadowy environments of one sort or another. Some in alkali depressions, some along stream margins, some in woodland openinings, roadsides, or grassy meadows. Nearly always they are associated with fairly rank grass/sedge growth.
