Grasshopper, Anacridium aegyptium (egyptian locust), light micrograph of spiny tibia (of saltatorial hind leg adapted for jumping) with sensory hairs and tube-shaped elements of the tracheal system.. The spines can be used in a defensive kick, or provide traction by holding onto surfaces so it may leap into the air and fly. The grasshopper is an edible insect (in certain countries) of the order Orthoptera, suborder Caelifera. Its ability to jump incredible heights and distances, as well as its elastic energy storage, have been researched in biomechanics, biomimetics, bionics, and for the design of jumping robots. Some migratory species occur in very large numbers, the swarming locusts, that cause important crop damage worldwide. Field of view size: 2.97 x 4.45 mm (0.117 x 0.175 in)