Brownsville Short-wing Grasshopper

Differs from M. plebejus in male cerci narrower; male furculae averaging shorter (basically peg-like but still diverging in M. cameronis ); tegmina, when short-winged, with apex drawn into a longer and more acute point. Differs from M. lakinus in more easterly distribution, slightly more slender build, generally more plain coloration (though some M. lakinus are just as plain), a shorter & less pointed male subgenital plate, and in having elongate male cerci instead of rounded cerci with a dorsal lobe. Differs from similar looking Phoetaliotes nebrascensis in having head proportionately smaller, and cerci broader apically. Rare long-winged specimens could be confused with several other species, but the rather plain coloration combined with relatively slender and big-headed proportions will help to distinguish these. The shapes of male cerci and subgenital plate, along with the very short (almost non-existant) male furculae can also help to identify them. Also, long-winged individuals will usually be associated with more abundant and otherwise like-looking short-winged individuals. Tip of male abdomen In the original description, Roberts considered some specimens to be intermediate with M. plebejus to the north, which would indicate that this is not a different species. However, for the time being the current treatment of Otte in the Orthoptera Species File will be followed here.