Diversity of Grasshoppers with Some Aspects of Bioecology of Aiolopus simulatrix (F. Walker), 1870 (Acrididae: Orthoptera) in White Nile State, Sudan

Authors: Musa H. O. Mohamed, Hatim B. E. Elfadni, Malik A. M. Alian, Mohamed E. Abduo, Mohammed I. E. Ali and Mohammed E. E. Mahmoud

DOI: 10.23880/oajar-16000377

Volume 9, Issue 4

Abstract

Background: Locusts and grasshoppers are serious pest to crops in many areas of the world and can cause economic losses through plagues and outbreaks causing threat to Food Security in the affected areas. Aims: Study was conducted in White Nile State (WNS), Sudan to specify the species composition of grasshoppers and to determine the seasonal abundance of Aiolopus simulatrix (F. Walker), the Sudan Plague Locust (SPL) and the most important biotic and abiotic factors governed its population for two consecutive seasons. Methodology: Field surveys were carried out in 4 localities in White Nile State viz., Kosti, Rabak, Al-gablain and Al-Salam to determine the species composition of grass hoppers as well as seasonal abundance of f Aiolopus simulatrix (F. Walker) following (Luong- Skovmand, 2005) method. Results: The study revealed 14 grasshopper’s species in WNS. The population of nymphs A. simulatrix were increased during August and September and that of adults were increased in October in both seasons. The most preferred host for SPL is Sorghum and millet but more than thirty plants were found to be as alternative hosts. The dark clay soils were found the most suitable to be utilized by females for egg laying, hibernation and aestivation. The correlation of grasshopper population was found highly positive, moderately positive and strongly negative with quantity of rain, relative humidity, sun rise and temperature respectively. The study revealed for the first time predatory birds’ prey on nymphs and adults of SPL grasshopper these birds are Egret (Bublcus ibis), carmine bee-eater, (Meropes nubicus) and two rare endangered birds Abdims Stork (Ciconia abdimii) and White Stork (Ciconia ciconia). Conclusion: The compiled information in this study is considered as a baseline for researchers to initiate a program for integrated management for SPL in WNS and all the country.

Keywords: Sudan Plague Locust; Sorghum; Millet; Rainfall; Predators

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