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Insects and Spiders · entry 25 of 52
Grasshoppers hear with organs located on their abdomen rather than their head.
The longer version
Hearing organs sit on either side of the first abdominal segment, tucked behind the base of the hind legs. Each is a thin membrane backed by air sacs; sound vibrations make it flex while sensory cells register the movement. Their relatives rely on the same arrangement rather than ears on the head.
Having them on the sides means arrival times can be compared, giving a rough sense of direction useful when tracking a caller. The membranes respond best to frequencies their own kind produces, so distant calls stand out against background noise. This placement also leaves the head free for feeding and biting.
Where this entry sits
This collection gathers small wonders from the world of ants, bees, butterflies, beetles, and spiders. Expect surprising details about swarms, silk, and metamorphosis, plus the strange everyday abilities of creatures small enough to fit on a fingertip. The full list sits on the Insects and Spiders page, where every entry is listed in order.
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