Schistocerca gregaria, known as the desert locust, is renowned for its swarming behavior. Found in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, it thrives in dry, arid regions. These locusts can form massive swarms, consuming vast amounts of vegetation, significantly impacting agriculture. Notable for their ability to travel great distances, they play a critical role in their ecosystem as both prey and consumer.

Schistocerca gregaria, commonly known as the desert locust, is native to arid and semi-arid regions across Africa, the Middle East, and Southwest Asia. Its geographical distribution spans from West Africa, including countries like Mauritania, Mali, and Niger, through the Arabian Peninsula, and into parts of South Asia such as India and Pakistan. The species is particularly prevalent in the Sahel region and the Horn of Africa, as well as the Red Sea coastal plains.

The desert locust inhabits desert and semi-desert regions characterized by sparse vegetation and low annual rainfall, typically ranging between 50 to 200 mm. These areas experience extreme temperature variations, with hot days and cooler nights. The species thrives in regions where the occasional rainfall can lead to temporary vegetation growth, providing the necessary resources for breeding and feeding.

Schistocerca gregaria occupies an ecological niche as a highly mobile herbivore capable of forming massive swarms that can travel long distances. The locusts primarily feed on green vegetation, including crops and grasses, which makes them significant agricultural pests during outbreak periods. They have adapted to take advantage of transient environmental conditions, such as the temporary presence of vegetation following rains in desert regions.