Lord Howe Island Stick Insect vs Cabbage Stem Weevil
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Lord Howe Island Stick Insect | Cabbage Stem Weevil |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Dryococelus australis | Ceutorhynchus pallidactylus |
| Order | Phasmatodea | Coleoptera |
| Family | Phasmatidae | Curculionidae |
| Size | 120-150 mm | 2.5-3.5 mm |
| Habitat | Heathland | Farmland |
| Diet | Herbivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Oceania | Europe |
| Conservation | Critically Endangered | Least Concern |
Lord Howe Island Stick Insect
Once thought extinct after rats were introduced in 1918, a tiny population was rediscovered in 2001 on Balls Pyramid, a volcanic sea stack 23 km from Lord Howe Island.
Did You Know?
Fewer than 30 individuals were found clinging to a single bush on a barren sea stack — making this the rarest insect rediscovery in history. Captive breeding saved the species.
Cabbage Stem Weevil
A grey weevil that mines inside brassica stems. Larvae tunnel through stems causing weakening. One of several Ceutorhynchus species affecting oilseed rape.
Did You Know?
Larval tunneling weakens plant stems to the point where they may snap in windy conditions.