Crickets & Grasshoppers

Crickets and grasshoppers belong to the order Orthoptera, which is distinguished by its members’ strong hind legs adapted for jumping and straight, elongated bodies. These insects are found globally across various habitats, from grasslands to forests, and are known for their vocalizations, which crickets produce using a method called stridulation—rubbing their wings together, while grasshoppers produce sound by rubbing their hind legs against their wings. Both crickets and grasshoppers are primarily herbivorous, feeding on a wide array of plants, though some cricket species are omnivorous, consuming small insects and plant material. Ecologically, they play a critical role in food webs, serving as a vital source of food for a variety of animals, including birds and mammals. Their population dynamics are also indicators of environmental health and biodiversity. Despite their beneficial roles, some species can become significant agricultural pests under favorable conditions, leading to extensive damage to crops and necessitating careful management.