Large Marsh Grasshopper
Stethophyma grossum
The Large Marsh Grasshopper is one of the largest grasshopper species in Central Europe, strictly inhabiting very wet environments such as fens and sedge marshes. It is characterized by an olive-green coloration with prominent yellow longitudinal stripes and bright red under-surfaces of the hind femora. Males produce a distinctive, loud clicking sound by striking their hind wings against the forewings during flight or while sitting. Due to the drainage of wetlands, it is considered threatened in many parts of its range.
Details
Identification
Olive-green base color; yellow stripe on the leading edge of the wing; underside of hind femora intense red; black knees on the hind legs.
Social behavior
Solitary; males acoustically defend territories and attract females through clicking sounds.
Diet
Feeds primarily on grasses (Poaceae) and sedges (Cyperaceae) of wet habitats.
Spawning substrate
Moist soil or moss cushions.
Overwintering
Overwintering as eggs (ootheca) in the soil or vegetation, often in moist substrates.
Ecology
Ecological role
Important primary consumer in wetlands and a significant food source for specialized bird species and spiders.
Natural predators
Birds (e.g., Common Snipe, Red-backed Shrike), spiders, amphibians.
Competitor species
Other hygrophilous grasshoppers such as the Marsh Grasshopper (Chorthippus montanus).
Ecosystem service
Part of the nutrient cycle in wet meadows.
Threats
Drainage of bogs, intensification of agriculture, abandonment of mowing on wet meadows.
Scientific profile
Profile
Distinguishing features
Largest native acridid grasshopper. Distinctive red coloration on the underside of the hind femora. Unique 'clicking' song produced by flicking the hind legs against the wings. Females are significantly more massive than males.
Habitat
Highly moisture-dependent habitats: wet meadows, fens, sedge marshes, riparian zones of ditches and ponds. Prefers unmanaged or extensively managed sites with high vegetation density.