description Canterbury knobbled weevil grasshopper (Brachaspis nivalis) Overview
Brachaspis nivalis is a flightless alpine grasshopper from New Zealand's South Island, described by Hutton in 1898 and now placed in Sigaus.
help Canterbury knobbled weevil grasshopper (Brachaspis nivalis) FAQ
Is Brachaspis nivalis still the accepted scientific name?
The species was moved into the genus Sigaus in a 2023 taxonomic revision, making Sigaus nivalis the current combination. Brachaspis nivalis remains widely used in older conservation literature and museum records.
Where can the Canterbury knobbled weevil grasshopper be found?
It is endemic to New Zealand's South Island, with populations associated with Canterbury, the Mount Cook region, and parts of Kaikōura. It favors open alpine terrain with substantial rocky substrate.
Can Sigaus nivalis fly?
No, it has reduced wings and is flightless. It moves by walking and hopping, and its mottled body helps it blend into alpine stones.
Why is it called nivalis?
The Latin word nivalis refers to snow or snowy conditions, matching the grasshopper's alpine habitat. Its current genus name, Sigaus, is associated with the unusually quiet or silent New Zealand alpine grasshoppers.
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