Water Stick Insect vs California Timema
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Water Stick Insect | California Timema |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Ranatra linearis | Timema californicum |
| Order | Phasmatodea | Phasmatodea |
| Family | Nepidae | Timematidae |
| Size | 30-45mm | 1.5-2.5 cm |
| Habitat | Ponds & Lakes | Woodlands |
| Diet | Predators | Herbivores |
| Regions | Europe, Asia | United States (California) |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Water Stick Insect
Despite its common name, this is actually a true bug (Hemiptera) that resembles a stick insect and lives underwater. It breathes through a long tail siphon. It is a slow-moving aquatic predator.
Did You Know?
Though called a stick insect, it is actually an aquatic true bug that breathes through a snorkel-like tail tube.
California Timema
A small green walking stick endemic to California. It is one of the most widespread Timema species on the Pacific coast.
Did You Know?
The entire genus Timema is restricted to western North America and represents the most ancient lineage of living stick insects.