Austrophasma caledonense vs Gladiator Bug
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Austrophasma caledonense | Gladiator Bug |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Austrophasma caledonense | Mantophasma zephyra |
| Order | Mantophasmatodea | Mantophasmatodea |
| Family | Austrophasmatidae | Mantophasmatidae |
| Size | 18-25 mm | 15-25 mm |
| Habitat | Heathland | Heathland |
| Diet | Omnivores | Predators |
| Regions | Africa | Africa |
| Conservation | Endangered | Data Deficient |
Austrophasma caledonense
A heelwalker from the Caledon district of South Africa. Females are larger than males and deposit eggs in sandy soil where they overwinter.
Did You Know?
The first living specimens were found after scientists matched an amber fossil to mysterious museum specimens from Namibia.
Gladiator Bug
One of the first species described in the newest insect order Mantophasmatodea, erected in 2002. A small wingless predator also called a heelwalker for its distinctive gait.
Did You Know?
This species belongs to the insect order Mantophasmatodea, described in 2002 — the first new insect order to be discovered in nearly 90 years.