Rare Genetic Mutation Observed in New Zealand Grasshopper

An exceptionally rare pink grasshopper has been spotted basking in the sun alongside a river in New Zealand's South Island. According to The Guardian US, a group of Department of Conservation researchers were conducting their annual grasshopper survey near Lake Tekapo in the MacKenzie basin when they encountered this dark pink female grasshopper.

The robust grasshopper species is native to New Zealand and is known as the country's largest lowland grasshopper. Typically, these grasshoppers are grey or brown, blending into their braided river habitat.

Jen Schori, a Department of Conservation ranger involved in the survey, noted that she had heard rumors about a pink grasshopper but had never seen one until now, describing the experience as exciting.

Pink grasshoppers are exceptionally rare, with their unique hue attributed to a genetic mutation known as erythrism. This mutation leads to an overproduction of red pigment and a reduction of the usual pigments that give grasshoppers their typical coloration.

The Department of Conservation estimates that there are only between 250 to 1,000 adult robust grasshoppers remaining in New Zealand, marking them as nationally endangered due to threats of habitat loss, climate warming, and predation.

Notably, females of this species are about double the size of males and require significant sunlight to warm up enough to feed and mature their eggs. Schori described the grasshoppers as unique and almost prehistoric in appearance.

Despite being excellent jumpers in open habitats, these grasshoppers are noted for their clumsiness, particularly when landing. This trait, combined with their vibrant pink coloration, makes them even more vulnerable to predators.

The sighting of this pink grasshopper is especially significant, as it will stand out even more in the wild. The pink grasshopper was found outside a predator exclusion fence created in 2018, possibly the world's first insect sanctuary, designed to protect the species from predation.

The pink grasshopper will need to fend for herself in the wild, as she is outside the protective enclosure. Schori expressed hope that the pink grasshopper might breed, potentially leading to more individuals with this rare coloration.

The discovery highlights the importance of genetic diversity and mutations in species adaptation and survival.