Post by trehopr1 on Nov 29, 2020 23:48:34 GMT -8
Ecuador surely must be one of the most species rich countries
for katydids (Tettigoniidae). You hear them at night in their
multitudes but, you never really see them until you "fire-up"
a Mercury vapor light in search of moths.
That's when every conceivable shape, design, or form of these
cryptically colored creatures makes its presence known.
I could not help myself but, take 6 or maybe 8 of the "coolest"
looking ones; even though Lepidoptera is what I was there for...
Below, I offer up the largest species which I have personally
ever encountered -- much less caught. You can hold it in your
open hand and it will fill it !
It was also a somewhat "weighty" creature all full of those
good leaves it had eaten. Really, a marvelous thing to behold
(in life) and in your hand.
For the most part it has held up remarkably well color-wise;
though still a far cry from when it was alive. However, I "treasure"
it for the experience it gave to me and for the fond memories
of Ecuador which it evokes when I look upon it !
Another marvel of katydid form/function is this incredible specimen
which my friend captured in Ecuador as well !
It possesses THE longest "spatulate" ovipositor which I have ever
seen on a katydid species. Its wingspan is just about 5 inches. Also,
the funny thing is that he never saw another one (like it) in the 10 days
he was there !
for katydids (Tettigoniidae). You hear them at night in their
multitudes but, you never really see them until you "fire-up"
a Mercury vapor light in search of moths.
That's when every conceivable shape, design, or form of these
cryptically colored creatures makes its presence known.
I could not help myself but, take 6 or maybe 8 of the "coolest"
looking ones; even though Lepidoptera is what I was there for...
Below, I offer up the largest species which I have personally
ever encountered -- much less caught. You can hold it in your
open hand and it will fill it !
It was also a somewhat "weighty" creature all full of those
good leaves it had eaten. Really, a marvelous thing to behold
(in life) and in your hand.
For the most part it has held up remarkably well color-wise;
though still a far cry from when it was alive. However, I "treasure"
it for the experience it gave to me and for the fond memories
of Ecuador which it evokes when I look upon it !
Another marvel of katydid form/function is this incredible specimen
which my friend captured in Ecuador as well !
It possesses THE longest "spatulate" ovipositor which I have ever
seen on a katydid species. Its wingspan is just about 5 inches. Also,
the funny thing is that he never saw another one (like it) in the 10 days
he was there !
