Bullacris membracioides is a fairly widespread species found along the east coast of South Africa, where it is frequently encountered in the field. There is a single historical record from Malawi, indicating that the species may possibly extend further north. However, in the absence of additional collecting records outside of the core distribution of the species, this locality is viewed with caution. The species is assessed as Least Concern (LC) due to its fairly wide geographic distribution within South Africa and its relative abundance.
Distribution
Bullacris membracioides is found along the east coast of southern Africa. It is most commonly found in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, but its distribution also extends into the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. There is a single, uncertain, record from Malawi, the only record that places the species outside of South Africa. Its extent of occurrence (EOO) is ca 340,000 kmĀ².
Bullacris membracioides emerges seasonally, and has been observed from November to May. Population trends are unknown, although the species is fairly abundant.
Threats
Potential threats to Bullacris membracioides include the transformation of land due to farming and urban development.
Uses and trade
This species is not utilised.
Conservation
There are no conservation actions for the species, but it is known to occur in some protected areas. It is morphologically very similar to Bullacris intermedia (Dirsh 1965), although preliminary genetic analyses show the two species to be genetically distinct (Gordon 2017). Research into its ecology, threats and population trend is needed.
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author = {Dirsh, V.M.},
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}
,@phdthesis{100946558,
author = {Gordon, M.L.},
school = {University of the Western Cape},
title = {An acoustic, genetic and morphological review of the genus Bullacris (Orthoptera; Pneumoridae)},
year = {2017}
}
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year = {2005}
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