Douglas-fir Timema vs Nelson Alpine Weta

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Douglas-fir Timema Nelson Alpine Weta
Scientific Name Timema douglasi Deinacrida tibiospina
Order Phasmatodea Orthoptera
Family Timematidae Anostostomatidae
Size 1.5-2 cm 40-60 mm
Habitat Forests Mountains
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions United States (Oregon), United States (Northern California) Oceania (New Zealand - South Island, Nelson)
Conservation Least Concern Near Threatened

Douglas-fir Timema

A parthenogenetic timema that feeds on old-growth Douglas fir. All-female populations can occasionally cause noticeable defoliation.

💡

Did You Know?

It reproduces entirely without males and can reach outbreak densities that defoliate old-growth Douglas fir trees.

Nelson Alpine Weta

An alpine weta endemic to the mountains of the Nelson/Marlborough region in New Zealand's South Island. It shelters under rocks during the day and forages on alpine vegetation at night. Its tibial spines are particularly well developed.

💡

Did You Know?

This species is named for the prominent spines on its tibia, which are used defensively when threatened.