A docile solitarious locust in the Global Locust Initiative lab at Arizona State University (IMAGE)
Caption
Like a werewolf exposed to moonlight, a locust is a grasshopper with the potential to completely transform under the right conditions. Out of approximately 6,800 described species of short-horned grasshoppers, only 19 are considered locusts. Over 15 years of studying locusts, Associate Professor Arianne Cease with the ASU School of Sustainability, discovered that plants growing in nutrient-poor soil promote locust outbreaks. These plants are high in carbs and low in protein. A key goal of her research is to improve sustainable ecosystem management and rural livelihoods.
Credit
Quinton Kendall/ASU Knowledge Enterprise
Usage Restrictions
Use only with this story and with the photo credit in all cases.
License
Original content