Lichen-Bark Katydid vs Tundra Leaf Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Lichen-Bark Katydid | Tundra Leaf Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Markia hystrix | Chrysomela lapponica |
| Order | Orthoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Tettigoniidae | Chrysomelidae |
| Size | 35-50 mm | 6-9 mm |
| Habitat | Mountains | Tundra & Arctic |
| Diet | Herbivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Colombia, Ecuador, Peru | Scandinavia, Finland, northern Russia, Siberia, subarctic Canada |
| 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.
Tundra Leaf Beetle
A rounded, metallic reddish-brown leaf beetle with variable dark markings. Adults and larvae feed on willows in subarctic and mountain regions. Both stages produce chemical defenses derived from salicylates in willow leaves.
Did You Know?
Larvae secrete droplets of salicylaldehyde derived from willow on their backs, creating a chemical shield that repels predators.