Lichen-Bark Katydid vs Cave Weta
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Lichen-Bark Katydid | Cave Weta |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Markia hystrix | Gymnoplectron acanthocerum |
| Order | Orthoptera | Orthoptera |
| Family | Tettigoniidae | Rhaphidophoridae |
| Size | 35-50 mm | 30-50 mm body |
| Habitat | Mountains | Indoors |
| Diet | Herbivores | Fungus Feeders |
| Regions | Colombia, Ecuador, Peru | Oceania |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Lichen-Bark Katydid
A Neotropical katydid covered in spine-like projections that mimic lichen or moss. Its body is green with textured growths blending with epiphyte-covered bark.
Did You Know?
Its spiny body projections are so convincing that even scientists can struggle to spot it on mossy branches.
Cave Weta
A large cave-dwelling weta endemic to New Zealand with extremely long antennae up to three times its body length. Uses its antennae to navigate in complete darkness.
Did You Know?
Cave wetas have antennae so long they can span a cave entrance like a trip wire — detecting predators and prey in pitch darkness using touch and vibration alone.