Leaf Insect
Extatosoma tiaratum |
Stick and leaf insects come in a variety of sizes and shapes, but they all generally have elongated bodies that are rounded or slightly flattened. They have small compound eyes, antennae of varying lengths and mandibulate mouthparts. Not all species have wings, those that do having membranous hindwings partly covered by shorter, hardened forewings. After mating, females lay several dozen to several hundred eggs amongst leaf litter. When hatched, the young resemble the adults, but without wings. They moult several times over a period of one to three months until they reach maturity. Phasmids are herbivores, living on leaves or grass, and can be found in most forested areas where an adequate food supply is available. Click on an image below to see the stick and leaf insects of Australia. |
