Utilisation and trade of edible grasshoppers in the western region of the state of Morelos, Mexico

Abstract

This article presents a taxonomic analysis of the grasshoppers utilised as food sources in several municipalities of the state of Morelos, Mexico; three families, four genera, and ten species were documented. The representative genus, Sphenarium, consists of seven different species. Various aspects regarding the host plants and collection and trade of these organisms are discussed. In addition, the importance of these organisms as a renewable natural food resource for rural communities in the state of Morelos is discussed.

Taxonomic Analysis of Some Edible Insects From the State of Michoacán, Mexico

“…This activity has become the source of income of many persons who are now devoted to collecting grasshoppers for human consumption. This is proof that this activity enables them to obtain a significant income ( 64 , 65 ), for example, a bag of dehydrated grasshoppers containing 20 g costs 35 pesos that are ~US$1.74; therefore, for the sale of 1 kg, 87 dollars are obtained. They are currently working with some mescal producers, using as a complement the grasshoppers and the salts, and that these commercial activities are profitable.…”