Zhao Stick Insect vs Colorful Stick Insect

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Zhao Stick Insect Colorful Stick Insect
Scientific Name Phryganistria chinensis Achrioptera maroloko
Order Phasmatodea Phasmatodea
Family Phasmatidae Achriopteridae
Size 357 mm body (640 mm with legs) 170-230 mm
Habitat Mountains Forests
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions Asia Madagascar
Conservation Data Deficient Data Deficient

Zhao Stick Insect

The longest insect ever measured at 64 cm with legs extended. Discovered in 2014 in Guangxi, China. A captive-bred specimen set the world record in 2017.

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Did You Know?

This stick insect was so elusive that entomologist Zhao Li spent six years searching for it after hearing reports from local villagers before finally spotting one at night.

Colorful Stick Insect

A newly described giant stick insect with brilliantly colored males showing iridescent blue bodies and orange-red limbs. Its species name means 'colorful' in Malagasy.

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Did You Know?

Its name 'maroloko' translates to 'colorful' in Malagasy, a fitting tribute to the extraordinary coloration of the males.