Insect · GBIF taxon 1681247
Common Groundhopper
Tetrix undulataAlso known as Common Ground-Hopper, Common Pygmy Grasshopper
Common groundhoppers rely on intricate mottled patterning in shades of grey, brown, and black to blend seamlessly against exposed soil and moss. Unlike typical grasshoppers, their extended pronotum covers the abdomen and shields their body, allowing adults and nymphs to overwinter in leaf litter and emerge during mild weather. They feed quietly on algae and mosses, relying on explosive powerful jumps rather than sound to escape threats.
CamouflagedGround-DwellingTiny
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Mosses
- Algae
- Lichens
Predators
- Ground Beetles
- Spiders
- Insectivorous Birds
ThreatsHabitat loss from land drainage and agricultural intensification
HabitatsDamp grasslands, heathlands, peat bogs, and open woodland paths
Life span1–2 years
Classification
- OrderOrthoptera
- FamilyTetrigidae
- GenusTetrix
- SpeciesTetrix undulata
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Harmless to humans; safe to observe closely on open ground.
Responsible observation
- Spotting: Scan bare earth, damp footpath edges, and mossy patches where their cryptic coloration excels.
- Approach: Move low and slowly, as sudden shadows trigger powerful escape jumps.
- Timing: Look on warm, sunny days throughout the year, even during mild winter spells.
Close Relative (c) Tina Ellegaard Poulsen, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Tina Ellegaard Poulsen · cc-by
Image unavailableClose Relative Close Relative
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Mystic Meadows
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