Lichen-mimicking Stick Insect vs Dobson's Stick Insect
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Lichen-mimicking Stick Insect | Dobson's Stick Insect |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Pseudodiacantha macklottii | Clitarchus hookeri |
| Order | Phasmatodea | Phasmatodea |
| Family | Phasmatidae | Phasmatidae |
| Size | 120-160mm | 80-100mm |
| Habitat | Beaches & Coastal | Gardens |
| Diet | Herbivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Oceania | Oceania |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Lichen-mimicking Stick Insect
A large stick insect with a rough textured body covered in small outgrowths that mimic lichen. Its greenish-gray coloring completes the camouflage. It is nocturnal and incredibly slow-moving.
Did You Know?
Its lichen-like texture is so detailed that even close inspection with a hand lens can fail to reveal it is an insect.
Dobson's Stick Insect
New Zealand's most common stick insect, found in gardens and native bush throughout the country. It ranges from bright green to brown. Some populations are entirely female and parthenogenetic.
Did You Know?
It was accidentally introduced to the United Kingdom via imported plants and now has established populations in southwest England.