The Eastern lubber grasshopper (Romalea microptera (Beauvois)) is a large colorful flightless grasshopper that often comes to the attention of Florida homeowners. It is native to Florida and the Southeastern Coastal Plain of the U.S.

Because of its size and coloration even one individual in a garden is conspicuous, but occasionally local populations explode to such an extent that the grasshoppers can seriously damage ornamentals, row crops and citrus groves. Such population explosions are the result in variation of factors such as weather and rates of parasitism by beneficial insects that normally limit population growth.

Lubber grasshoppers have only one generation per year and reach their population peak in late summer. They tend to prefer low moist areas in which to breed but can disperse into any nearby habitat. They will feed on many different kinds of plants, but seem to favor amaryllis and its relatives.

The following links provide extensive information, including management suggestions, on this eye-catching insect.

• UF-IFAS Eastern Lubber Grasshopper
• UF-IFAS Biology Eastern Lubber Grasshopper
• UF-IFAS Lubber Grasshopper Information ~ pdf

Eastern lubber, young nymph. Photo credit: John Capinera, University of Florida

Cluster of young lubber nymphs on citrus. Photo credit: John Capinera, University of Florida

Eastern lubber, older nymph. Photo credit: John Capinera, University of Florida

Eastern lubber, nymphs (unusual color). Photo credit: R. Railton

Eastern lubber, nymph. Photo credit: James Castner

Eastern lubber, young nymph. Photo credit: Morgan Breeden

Eastern lubber, adult. Photo credit: James Castner

Eastern lubber, adult. Photo credit: William Logan

Eastern lubber, adult, light color. Photo credit: John Capinera, University of Florida

Eastern lubber, adult on crinum lily. Photo credit: Lyle Buss

Eastern lubber, adult, dark color. Photo credit: John Capinera, University of Florida

Eastern lubber, adult, intermediate color. Photo credit: John Capinera, University of Florida