Giant Trap-jaw Ant vs Colorful Stick Insect

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Giant Trap-jaw Ant Colorful Stick Insect
Scientific Name Odontomachus hastatus Achrioptera maroloko
Order Hymenoptera Phasmatodea
Family Formicidae Achriopteridae
Size 12-16 mm 170-230 mm
Habitat Forests Forests
Diet Omnivores Herbivores
Regions South America Madagascar
Conservation Least Concern Data Deficient

Giant Trap-jaw Ant

One of the largest trap-jaw ant species, building arboreal carton nests in tropical forests. Its elongated mandibles are held open at 180 degrees and triggered by sensory hairs.

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Did You Know?

Unlike most trap-jaw ants that nest on the ground, this species builds paper-like nests high in the forest canopy.

Colorful Stick Insect

A newly described giant stick insect with brilliantly colored males showing iridescent blue bodies and orange-red limbs. Its species name means 'colorful' in Malagasy.

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Did You Know?

Its name 'maroloko' translates to 'colorful' in Malagasy, a fitting tribute to the extraordinary coloration of the males.