Ortiz's Leaf Insect vs Giant Dung Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Ortiz's Leaf Insect Giant Dung Beetle
Scientific Name Phyllium ortizi Helictopleurus giganteus
Order Phasmatodea Coleoptera
Family Phylliidae Scarabaeidae
Size 5-7 cm 20-30 mm
Habitat Mountains Mountains
Diet Herbivores Dung Feeders
Regions Philippines (Mindanao) Madagascar
Conservation Data Deficient Data Deficient

Ortiz's Leaf Insect

A recently described leaf insect from Mindanao in the southern Philippines. It is distinguished by the shape of its thoracic plates.

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Did You Know?

It is named after the Filipino researcher who contributed significantly to the taxonomy of Philippine leaf insects.

Giant Dung Beetle

The largest member of the endemic Helictopleurus genus, with a robust body and prominent cephalic horns in males. Its dark brown to black exoskeleton is heavily sculptured with ridges and punctures.

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Did You Know?

Unlike African dung beetles that rely on large mammal dung, this species evolved to specialize on lemur droppings found on the forest floor.