Lord Howe Island Stick Insect vs Honeypot Ant
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Lord Howe Island Stick Insect | Honeypot Ant |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Dryococelus australis | Myrmecocystus mimicus |
| Order | Phasmatodea | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Phasmatidae | Formicidae |
| Size | 120-150 mm | 4-10 mm |
| Habitat | Heathland | Heathland |
| Diet | Herbivores | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Oceania | Southwestern United States |
| 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.
Honeypot Ant
A honey ant species that engages in ritualized territorial tournaments between neighboring colonies. Workers are amber-colored and colonies maintain dozens of repletes. Tournament battles involve workers stilting on raised legs to appear larger.
Did You Know?
Their territorial tournaments involve hundreds of workers from rival colonies displaying on stilted legs, but rarely result in actual fighting.