Crickets and grasshoppers are two such insects that look almost similar to one another and can be really confusing for some people. But if looked at carefully, a number of differences can be drawn between these two insects as they happen to be completely different from one another.
Key Takeaways
- Crickets have long antennae, while grasshoppers have short antennae.
- Crickets produce sound by rubbing wings together, whereas grasshoppers rub their legs against wings.
- Grasshoppers are diurnal, while crickets are nocturnal.
Crickets vs Grasshoppers
The difference between Crickets and Grasshoppers is that both of these belong to a similar order of insects that is known as Orthoptera, but even after this, they differ by their suborders. The former belongs to the suborder Ensifera, while on the other hand, the latter belongs to the suborder Caeliferans. Apart from this very basic difference, a lot of differences lie between these two insects in terms of their physical attributes.
Belonging to the suborder Ensifera of order Orthoptera, a Cricket is a very common insect that is found in almost all areas of the world regardless of the weather and the circumstances. This insect is mostly noticed during the night time or when the sun sets. A distinguishing feature that differentiates the sunset from other insects is that it creates a particular chirping sound that can be recognized anywhere.
But on the other hand, belonging to the suborder Caeliferans of order Orthoptera, a grasshopper is another species of insect that somehow looks similar to the previously described insect. It can be seen in places with heavy flora. In the daytime, this insect happens to be relatively more active and can be noticed in almost all parts of the world.
Comparison Table
| Parameters of Comparison | Crickets | Grasshoppers |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | It is a variety of insects having a relatively short body and two large antennas. | It is a variety of insects that majorly feeds upon plants and can be noticed almost all across the world. |
| Suborder | It belongs to the suborder Ensifera. | It belongs to the suborder Caeliferans |
| Activity time | It is mostly noticed during the nighttime. | It is mostly noticed during the daytime. |
| Size | The average cricket is found of almost two inches. | An average grasshopper happens somewhat up to four inches or more. |
| Color | It is majorly found in either brown or dull yellow color. | It is majorly found in a very bright and shiny green color. |
| Abilities | This insect happens to be able to fly only. | This insect can not only fly but hop or jump as well. |
| Species available | Almost 900 species of this insect are available all across the world. | Almost 11000 species of this insect are available all across the world. |
What are Crickets?
At almost all times of the year, especially during the monsoon, if one is to go out of his house during dawn and visit near the bushes, a distinct and particular sound of chirping can be noticed. This sound is produced by a species of insect known as the Crickets, and they belong to the suborder Ensifera of the animal kingdom.
Crickets in their habitat can be seen all across the world and in almost all countries. However, these insects are not very comfortable with severe cold weather, and therefore, they refrain from living in such an area. Apart from this, they are widely seen all over the earth. One can easily recognize these insects as they carry some distinguished qualities.
In most cases, crockets can be seen either in brown color or in a very pale yellowish color, and they grow up to 2 inches mostly. Almost 900 species of these insects can be found on Earth, but the most classical form known as the bush crickets is seen everywhere. These carry two very lengthy antennas on their head and make a very different sound of chirping.
What are Grasshoppers?
If one is to look closer at bushes and crops, an insect looking similar to crickets or cockroaches can be found easily feeding upon those crops, and this insect appears in green color. If anyone makes any move towards this insect, it hops from one plant to another and continues eating the plants. In terms of science, this insect is known as a Grasshopper.
Belonging to the suborder Caeliferans of the order Orthoptera of the animal kingdom, a grasshopper is a very important and significant part of the ecosystem of the earth. It is a herbivore’s insect and mainly feeds upon plants. It can easily be recognized because of its color and size it holds. It can grow up to four inches in most cases and carries antennas and wings to fly and jump from one place to another.
These insects do not produce any chirping sound but a flapping sound of their wings or hands rubbing altogether. This sound is like a signal to their other family or group members. In some areas, when a grasshopper is found altering its color and qualities. It is recognized as a locust.
Main Differences Between Crickets and Grasshoppers
- Cricket is a particular insect that is a member of the suborder Ensifera of insects, but on the other hand, a Grasshopper is another species of insect belonging to a different suborder, Caeliferans.
- As a matter of size, a Grasshopper happens to be bigger as compared to a Cricket.
- While cricket can be of either brown or pale-yellow color, a grasshopper is found in green color only.
- On average, crickets are almost 900 species available, but grasshoppers have almost 11000 species available.
- While a cricket is an insect of night and does all its activities after the sun sets, a grasshopper is more of a daytime insect and can be seen at almost any time.
- http://nora.nerc.ac.uk/id/eprint/7358/1/Grasshoppers.pdf
- https://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=Yfja3vzfJSQC&oi=fnd&pg=PA10&dq=grasshoppers&ots=mw73ZCHSas&sig=5v9k8gN9t22y7gO0dOvwYKVqDIE
Last Updated : 11 June, 2023
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Piyush Yadav has spent the past 25 years working as a physicist in the local community. He is a physicist passionate about making science more accessible to our readers. He holds a BSc in Natural Sciences and Post Graduate Diploma in Environmental Science. You can read more about him on his bio page.
The differences between crickets and grasshoppers are not only physical but also in terms of the number of species and habitat preferences. Both insects play an essential role in the ecosystem and need to be studied further for better conservation efforts.
Indeed, understanding these small yet important details about insects like crickets and grasshoppers can help us appreciate the diversity of life on Earth and work towards protecting and preserving it.
Absolutely! Such differences carry significant importance in the study of entomology. There’s much to learn from these insects, their behavior, and their roles in their respective environments.
It is interesting to note that crickets have long antennae and produce sound by rubbing their wings, while grasshoppers have short antennae and produce sound by rubbing their legs against their wings. The differences between them are crucial for identification.
The significant differences between crickets and grasshoppers, which range from their suborders to their activities, highlight the diverse nature of the insect world. There’s always more to learn about these fascinating creatures.
The detailed descriptions of crickets and grasshoppers, along with their main differences, offer an insightful look into these unique insects. Exploring their behaviors and characteristics contributes to our understanding of the insect kingdom.
Crickets and grasshoppers are insects that are both very common, but few would recognize the differences between them. More knowledge on this subject is essential to protect and conserve these species.
The comparison table provides a comprehensive view of the distinctions between crickets and grasshoppers, aiding in better understanding these insects and their characteristics. Great insights!
The specific details about crickets and grasshoppers, right down to their activity times and coloration, offer valuable insights into the world of these insects. This knowledge can be crucial for their conservation.
The distinct characteristics of crickets and grasshoppers, such as their size, color, and abilities, emphasize the importance of understanding and distinguishing between various species. This knowledge contributes to the broader field of entomology.