Pyrgomorphidae

Pyrgomorphidae is a family of grasshoppers in the order Orthoptera, suborder Caelifera. Commonly known as gaudy grasshoppers, the group belongs to the superfamily Pyrgomorhoidea and includes numerous genera and species distributed in warm, tropical regions.

Morphology within the family is varied but typical features include a robust, medium to large body and relatively short antennae. Many species exhibit bright, contrasting coloration and elaborate patterns that serve as aposematic signals to potential predators. The pronotum is often expanded or sculptured, and wing development ranges from reduced to well developed across different genera.

Distribution and habitat are broad, with most species occurring in Africa and Asia, and some representatives reaching the Americas. They inhabit a variety of environments, including savannas, grasslands, and areas influenced by human agriculture, where they may encounter crops and garden plants.

Ecology and behavior: Pyrgomorphids are primarily herbivorous, feeding on a wide range of vegetation, including plants with chemical defenses. Several species can become locally abundant and are considered agricultural pests in certain regions. Zonocerus variegatus is a well-known example of a pest within this family, noted for its impact on vegetables and crops.

Systematics: The family comprises multiple genera and has undergone taxonomic revisions as researchers apply both morphological and molecular data to clarify relationships within Pyrgomorhoidea. As with many Orthoptera groups, ongoing studies continue to refine its internal classification and phylogenetic position.