THE EFFECTS ON THE GRASSHOPPER, MELANOPLUS MEXICANUS MEXICANUS (SAUSS.) (ORTHOPTERA: ACRIDIDAE), OF VARYING THE NITROGEN CONTENT IN ITS FOOD PLANT

Abstract

Melanoplus mexicanus mexicanus (Sauss.), from time of hatching, was fed on wheat (Renown) grown in nutrient solutions of varying nitrogen content. Some wheat was produced with an average nitrogen content of 6.16% (dry weight), some with 4.29%, and some with 3.33%. Survival and development were greatest on the high nitrogen wheat, least on the low. On the low nitrogen wheat no individuals developed beyond the last nymphal instar. Neither weight of adults nor the sex ratio was affected by the various foods. Females fed on wheat with a high nitrogen content laid more eggs but the viability of the eggs was not affected.