Zhao Stick Insect vs Malagasy Praying Stick Insect
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Zhao Stick Insect | Malagasy Praying Stick Insect |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Phryganistria chinensis | Achrioptera punctipes |
| Order | Phasmatodea | Phasmatodea |
| Family | Phasmatidae | Achriopteridae |
| Size | 357 mm body (640 mm with legs) | 150-200 mm |
| Habitat | Mountains | Forests |
| Diet | Herbivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Asia | Madagascar |
| Conservation | Data Deficient | Least Concern |
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.
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.
Malagasy Praying Stick Insect
A large stick insect with spotted legs and a green to brown body covered in small spiny tubercles. Females are considerably larger than males and lack bright coloring.
Did You Know?
Its spotted legs serve as a secondary identification feature that distinguishes it from the many other Achrioptera species on the island.