Habitat selection and morphology of Saga pedo (Pallas, 1771) in Alps (Susa Valley, Piedmont, NW Italy) (Insecta: Orthoptera, Tettigoniidae, Saginae)

A study on the orthopteran species Saga pedo in the Susa Valley, Italy, reveals that its habitat preferences extend beyond xerothermic oases to include xeric agricultural environments, particularly abandoned vineyards. These findings challenge previous assumptions about the species' ecological niche and highlight the importance of open, non-forested areas for its survival. The research, based on field observations from 2016–2018 and biometric comparisons between two survey areas, also suggests potential differences in morphology that warrant further investigation. Additionally, the study notes a correlation between adult presence and high prey densities, offering insights into the species' ethology. These results contribute to the understanding of S. pedo, a protected species threatened by the encroachment of shrub and tree vegetation.

Anselmo, L. (2019). Habitat selection and morphology of Saga pedo (Pallas, 1771) in Alps (Susa Valley, Piedmont, NW Italy) (Insecta: Orthoptera, Tettigoniidae, Saginae). Fragmenta Entomologica, 51(1), 63–74. https://doi.org/10.4081/fe.2019.336