A revision of the grasshopper genus Orthochtha and its allies (Orthoptera: Acrididae: Acridinae)

This revision concerns the genera Orthochtha, Euprepoptera, Lobopoma, Pamacris and Xerophlaeoba, which are diagnosed and redescribed, plus three others erected here: Shabacris for Lobopoma robusta, Nimbacris for Lobopoma longicornis and Xenocymochtha for a new species, barkeri, here described. As now recognized, Orthochtha comprises 25 species and 11 subspecies of which 12 species and five subspecies respectively are described here as new, while the identity of another species, O. angustata, remains uncertain. Of the other genera, two species are now recognized within Euprepoptera, one of which is new, three within Lobopoma (two new) and two within Pamacris, with carterocera transferred from Lobopoma. In all, 36 species and 11 subspecies are diagnosed, illustrated, keyed and their distributions mapped. Six new synonymies are established and four specific names recalled but given new status as subspecies; two other species are reduced to the rank of subspecies. Six lectotypes and one neotype are designated. The affinities of the taxa are discussed on the basis of classical taxonomic criteria and also by numerical analysis. Their biogeographies are assessed, notably in terms of the postulated environmental influences on their evolution. A synopsis of the available information on the biology, ecology and economic importance is given for each species