Katydids are a familiar part of the natural world, particularly during warmer months when their distinctive calls fill the evening air. These insects, often heard more than seen, belong to the family Tettigoniidae and are commonly known as bush crickets or long-horned grasshoppers. While they share similarities with other insects, katydids possess unique characteristics that set them apart.
Identifying a Katydid
Katydids are masters of camouflage, primarily recognized by their bright green coloration that allows them to blend seamlessly with foliage. Their appearance often mimics a walking green leaf, with some species even displaying prominent leaf-like veins on their wings. While green is common, some katydid species can also exhibit striking pink, yellow, orange, or tan hues.
Their body shape is typically taller than it is wide, with most species ranging from approximately 1 to over 6 centimeters (0.4 to 2.4 inches) in length. A defining feature is their exceptionally long, thin antennae, which can extend beyond their body length. These antennae are equipped with sensory receptors, aiding their navigation in the dark, as most katydids are nocturnal.
Katydid wings are typically held vertically over their bodies, resembling a peaked roof, enhancing their leaf-like disguise. Many have long wings that cover most of their body. They are generally not strong flyers, often fluttering their wings only when leaping from vegetation. Females also possess a noticeable, often flattened or sword-like, ovipositor used for laying eggs.
Where Katydids Live and What They Eat
Katydids are found across nearly every continent, with the exception of Antarctica, thriving in diverse habitats. They are particularly abundant in tropical regions, such as the Amazon Rainforest, where species diversity is highest. They also inhabit temperate forests, woodlands, parks, and gardens.
Their diet primarily consists of plant matter, making most species herbivorous. They consume leaves, flowers, and stems from various plants, often favoring young, tender foliage. Some katydids exhibit omnivorous tendencies, supplementing their plant-based diet with small insects like aphids or other invertebrates. They also feed on fruits and seeds.
The Katydid’s Distinctive Song
The characteristic sounds of katydids are produced through a process called stridulation, where males rub specific parts of their forewings together. One wing features a file-like ridge, and the other a scraper; rapid movement between these structures creates their distinctive chirping or buzzing noise. This allows each katydid species to have its own unique song.
These songs serve several purposes, most notably attracting mates. They also play a role in establishing territories and defend against other males. The well-known “katy-did, katy-didn’t” call, which gives the insect its common name, is a specific pattern produced by certain species.
While males are the primary singers, some female katydids may produce quieter sounds in response to male calls. Katydid songs are predominantly heard at night, as most species are nocturnal. Their hearing organs, called tympana, are located on their front legs, enabling them to perceive these acoustic signals.
Distinguishing Katydids from Other Insects
Katydids, grasshoppers, and crickets are all members of the order Orthoptera, but they possess key differences that aid in identification. Katydids are more closely related to crickets than to grasshoppers. A noticeable distinction lies in their antennae.
Katydids have long, thin antennae that often exceed their body length. In contrast, grasshoppers possess shorter, thicker antennae. Crickets, like katydids, also have long antennae.
Differences in sound production also help differentiate them. Katydids and crickets produce sounds by rubbing their forewings together. Grasshoppers, however, create sounds by rubbing their hind legs against their forewings. Their activity patterns further distinguish them, as most katydids are nocturnal, while grasshoppers are active during the day.