La fonction d’apparence chez les Tettigonioidea

Five different morphological types can be distinguished among Tettigonioidea (Orthoptera) : the «standard» type, the «vertical flat», the «horizontal flat», the «elongated» and the «spherical». The last four help to conceal the insect within its environment. These morphological types are defined biometrically. The resemblance to the surrounding vegetation is enhanced not only by a variety of colours, patterns and microstructures of the integument, but also by special behaviour patterns and coaptations (Cuénot, 1926). This combination of morphological and behavioural features undoubtedly plays an important role in predator-prey relationships. The total physical characteristics of the prey is less important in terms of adaptation than is its manifest appearance.Leroy Yveline. La fonction d’apparence chez les Tettigonioidea. In: La Terre et La Vie, Revue d'Histoire naturelle, tome 27, n°4, 1973. pp. 578-606