Synonyms and other taxonomic changes
Boopedon Thomas, 1870. Genotype: Gryllus nubilus Say
Morseiella Hebard, 1925. Genotype: Boopedon flaviventris Bruner
Explanation of Names
The vernacular name "Boopie" is commonly used for this genus (and has been for many decades) by people who study or survey these Grasshoppers in the field, but it seems to appear in no published literature.
Identification
Relatively large (males much smaller than females); very stocky (especially females) with smooth large rounded heads; wings usually not reaching end of abdomen, and only rarely beyond tip of hind femora. Most similar to other genera in the Aulocara Group, but larger than all other species in that group, and differing obviously from all in details of coloration and pattern. Most (but not all) of those related species have longer wings. Some similar genera have blue hind tibiae, while Boopedon species do not (though they may be as close as purple in some individuals of B. nubilum.
Range
North America, mostly in grassland regions west of the Mississippi River, east of the deserts, south of Canada, and north of the tropics.
Habitat
Grasslands, depending on species these may vary from semi-desert to open woodlands.
Season
All overwinter as eggs with adults late spring or summer into autumn.
Contributed by
Tom Bentley on 5 October, 2007 - 3:10pm
Additional contributions by
David FergusonLast updated 12 October, 2010 - 12:05pm