Gladiator Bug vs Cederberg Heelwalker
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Gladiator Bug | Cederberg Heelwalker |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Mantophasma zephyra | Austrophasma cederbergense |
| Order | Mantophasmatodea | Mantophasmatodea |
| Family | Mantophasmatidae | Austrophasmatidae |
| Size | 15-25 mm | 15-22 mm |
| Habitat | Heathland | Heathland |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | Africa | Southern Africa, South Africa |
| Conservation | Data Deficient | Data Deficient |
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.
Cederberg Heelwalker
A predatory heelwalker found in the Cederberg Mountains of South Africa. It is greenish-brown and well-camouflaged among fynbos shrubs.
Did You Know?
Females eat the male after mating, similar to praying mantises, despite being in an entirely different order.