Rediscovery of the Monte Gordo Grasshopper Eyprepocprifas insularis: An ancient brachypterous species endemic to São Nicolau, Cape Verde (Orthoptera, Eyprepocnemidinae)

By

Felix, Rob
Jacobs, Annelies
Lecoq, Michel

Type

Article

Date of Publication

2025-04-24

Original Publication

Journal of orthoptera research : JOR

Volume

34

Pages

159--168

Subjects

Africa extinct grasshopper highlands Red List taxo

Contributed by

Pensoft Publishers

Language

English

Published by

Philadelphia, Penn Orthopterists' Society 1992-

Identifiers

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3897/jor.34.144016

 

Abstract

The Monte Gordo Grasshopper Eyprepocprifas insularis, considered extinct, was rediscovered on the island of São Nicolau, Cape Verde, in 2023. This unique brachypterous grasshopper is a “living fossil” endemic to the archipelago. This paper provides updated taxonomic information, describes the female for the first time, examines habitat characteristics and the impact of human activity, and proposes an IUCN Red List status. The study emphasizes the need for further research on this resilient yet threatened species.