Impact of Climate Change on Biodiversity of Grasshoppers (Orthoptera: Acrididae) in Koshi Division of Bihar, India

Bihar has been facing the most fluctuating climate change for years, especially the Koshi division, which comprises the three districts i.e, Saharsa, Madhepura and Supaul. Koshi River flows through and around the districts, affecting the area when water is released from the Nepal barrage. Thirty-two species of grasshoppers under twenty genera and ten subfamilies have been reported from the area of research. A maximum of eight species are represented by the subfamily Oedipodinae, while least one species is represented by the subfamily Spathosterninae. The main host is rice and maize among crops and grasses. Simpson’s Diversity index calculated is 0.97, indicates rich diversity of grasshoppers and suggests a stable site. Population density is recorded highest at 30°C temperature and 50% humidity where reproduction and survival rates are maximum. Moderate rainfall stimulates plant growth, providing abundant and high quality food which in turn also favours population growth.