Synonyms and other taxonomic changes
Orchelimum (Metarhoptrum) unispina (Saussure & Pictet, 1898)
Type locality: Northern America, Mexico, Mexico Southwest, Jalisco, and Orizaba
Identification
Very similar to Conocephalus in general appearance - more slender than other Orchelimum spp., and with a straight ovipositor (unlike the upcurved ovipositor of most Orchelimum). Shape of male cercus and calling song are distinctive.
Range
Literature records are mainly from Mexico: Baja California, Sonora, Sinaloa, Jalisco, and Vera Cruz. There are also a few records from Pima and Maricopa counties, AZ.
BugGuide photos show the species as widespread in southern AZ, as well as south TX.
Habitat
Prefers habitats with abundant tall grasses, usually with some trees interspersed. In AZ, found in riparian areas within canyons; in south TX, most common along margins of resacas (oxbow lakes).
Season
Adults appear early in summer (June) and may be found until the onset of cold weather, and mid-sized nymphs are common in midwinter. Likely the species overwinters as nymphs. Adults have been found in midwinter in south TX.
Print References
Rehn, J.A.G. & Hebard. 1915. Trans. Amer. Entomol. Soc. 41(1):81
Hebard. 1932. Trans. Amer. Entomol. Soc. 58(3): 334
