Anti-Locust Memoirs (1968) no. 9, 1-45

G. Popov and M. Ratcliffe (1968)
The Sahelian tree locust Anacridium melanorhodon (Walker)
Anti-Locust Memoirs no. 9, 1-45
Abstract: This comprehensive review on Anacridium melanorhodon, begins with an outline of the taxonomy of the genus Anacridium. All the life stages of A. melanorhodon are then described, in both its solitary and swarming populations, together with the life cycles of the two subspecies A. m. melanorhodon and A. m. arabafrum. The behaviour of both adults and hoppers is outlined, Activity of all kinds is mainly nocturnal. The level of gregariousness seems to fall between that of typical locusts and grasshoppers, with only short displacements rather than migrations. The distribution of A. melanorhodon coincides closely with the Sahelo-Saharan and Sahelian vegetation zones, characterised by sparse low xerophilous vegetation with scattered Acacia and other small spiny trees. The breeding chronology of the two subspecies reflects the rainfall regimes in their distribution areas. A. m. melanorhodon, inhabits the area to the west of these zones, which has a more complex rainfall regime with two or even three maxima, and may produce more than one generation each year. The monthly distribution maps of adults and hoppers suggest a general movement between wider adult dispersion and a narrower seasonal breeding area. The economic importance of A. melanorhodon is examined in relation to its known food plants. Damage to Acacia senegal (a source of gum arabic), fruit trees, and even cotton and grain crops. is becoming increasingly serious with the expansion of agriculture. General observations on natural enemies are also included. Finally there is a note on the Sudanese Tree Locust, A. wernerellum which is often confused with A. melanorhodon.
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Research topic(s) for pests/diseases/weeds:
review

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Pest and/or beneficial records:

Beneficial	Pest/Disease/Weed	Crop/Product	Country	Quarant.
	Anacridium melanorhodon