description Cornops aquaticum (Aquatic Grasshopper) Overview
Cornops aquaticum is a semiaquatic grasshopper in the family Acrididae and subfamily Leptysminae, native to tropical and subtropical South America. It lives on floating aquatic plants and is closely associated with water hyacinths in the genus Eichhornia, which provide both food and sites for egg laying. Because it damages these plants throughout several life stages, researchers have evaluated the species as a possible biological control agent where invasive water hyacinth obstructs waterways.
insights Ranking position
Cornops aquaticum (Aquatic Grasshopper) ranks #155 of 771 in the Grasshopper ranking, behind Schistocerca piceifrons, ahead of Long-headed Grasshopper (Acrida ungarica).
help Cornops aquaticum (Aquatic Grasshopper) FAQ
What do Cornops aquaticum grasshoppers eat?
These semiaquatic grasshoppers feed almost exclusively on water hyacinths in the genus Eichhornia. They live directly on the floating leaves of these aquatic plants in their native South American habitats.
Where does the aquatic grasshopper live?
The insect is native to tropical and subtropical wetlands and rivers in South America. They thrive on floating vegetation in places like the Amazon Basin and the Pantanal.
Is Cornops aquaticum used for biological pest control?
Yes, because they eat water hyacinths, these grasshoppers have been studied and released as a biological control agent. They are used in places like Africa and parts of the US where invasive water hyacinths are choking waterways.
Can Cornops aquaticum swim?
While they are semiaquatic and live on floating plants, they are not strong swimmers. If they fall into the water, they rely on their hydrophobic legs to quickly scramble back onto the nearest floating leaf.
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