Javanese Leaf Insect vs Peruvian Fern Stick Insect

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Javanese Leaf Insect Peruvian Fern Stick Insect
Scientific Name Phyllium bioculatum Oreophoetes peruana
Order Phasmatodea Phasmatodea
Family Phylliidae Diapheromeridae
Size 60-90 mm 45-65 mm
Habitat Grasslands Mountains
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions Asia South America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Javanese Leaf Insect

A remarkable leaf mimic with a broad, flat green body, complete with realistic leaf veins, midrib, and even fake bite marks. It is the most well-known leaf insect species.

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Did You Know?

Even the walking motion of leaf insects mimics a leaf tumbling in the wind, with each step accompanied by a gentle rocking of the body.

Peruvian Fern Stick Insect

A striking stick insect with a black body and contrasting red or orange wings. Males are more brightly colored than females and both sexes spray a defensive chemical.

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Did You Know?

When threatened, this stick insect sprays a milky defensive secretion from glands behind its head that contains quinoline compounds and smells like toffee.