African Giant Stick Insect vs Velvet Stick Insect
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | African Giant Stick Insect | Velvet Stick Insect |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Palophus centaurus | Peruphasma schultei |
| Order | Phasmatodea | Phasmatodea |
| Family | Phasmatidae | Pseudophasmatidae |
| Size | 150-230 mm (females) | 40-55 mm |
| Habitat | Mountains | Mountains |
| Diet | Herbivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda) | South America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Endangered |
African Giant Stick Insect
One of the largest stick insects in East Africa, with females reaching over 20 cm in length. It has thorny legs and body protrusions that enhance its twig-like camouflage.
Did You Know?
When threatened, it can drop from branches and play dead for extended periods, or thrash its spiny hind legs as a defensive display.
Velvet Stick Insect
A jet-black velvety stick insect with bright red vestigial wings found in one small area.
Did You Know?
Its entire wild range covers less than five hectares in the Cordillera del Condor.