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Smooth stick insect

Smooth stick insect

Clitarchus hookeri

A species of Clitarchus

The smooth stick insect (Clitarchus hookeri) is a stick that most likely green, but sometimes is found brown even to be red. As you may expect, they blend in well with plants that have stuck on them. When mating, these insects can connect with one another from 1 to 10 nights.

General Info About Smooth stick insect
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Attributes of Smooth stick insect
Colors
Brown
Green
Habitat
forest; grassland
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Smooth stick insect is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Smooth stick insect feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Chewing mouthparts
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Species Status of Smooth stick insect
It is found from Northland to the Wellington region in the south of the North Island of New Zealand. It is also found in Great Britain, where it has been introduced.
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Distribution Area of Smooth stick insect
New Zealand
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Appearance of Smooth stick insect
Clitarchus hookeri is often green in appearance, but can also be brown or red. Female specimens grow from 8 - 11 cm and males from 7 - 7 cm. The colour can be variable, even in the same location, ranging from bright green to grey, brown or buff.
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How to Identify Smooth stick insect?

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Life Cycle of Smooth stick insect
Egg The smooth stick insect begins as an egg, often resembling plant seeds for camouflage. The eggs exhibit little to no movement and develop over weeks to months, depending on environmental conditions.
Nymph Upon hatching, the nymph stage resembles miniature wingless adults. Throughout successive molts, the smooth stick insect grows in size, and its color may vary to match its environment.
Adult The final molt reveals the adult smooth stick insect, with complete development of reproductive organs. They are larger, exhibit sexual dimorphism, and their coloration often reflects their habitat for effective camouflage.
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Predators of Adult Smooth stick insect
Birds, rodents, reptiles, large spiders, insectivorous insects
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Interesting Facts About Smooth stick insect
Smooth stick insect can reproduce asexually through a process called parthenogenesis, where females can lay fertile eggs without any male contact.
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Scientific Classification of Smooth stick insect
Tips for Finding Smooth stick insect
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Youth Habitat of Smooth stick insect
Forests and Woodlands
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Adult Habitat of Smooth stick insect
Forests and Woodlands
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How Can You Attract Smooth stick insect
Since smooth stick insect is primarily herbivorous, fresh leaves and plants that the species typically feeds on could be used as lure or trap food.
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Habitat Preferences of Smooth stick insect Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of smooth stick insect are often deposited on the ground, camouflaged among plant debris. During the nymph stages, smooth stick insect can be found on the host plants they feed on, blending in with the foliage to avoid predators. Adult smooth stick insect typically reside higher up in the vegetation, using their remarkable mimicry to remain concealed among branches and leaves. To search for these insects, one would sift through leaf litter for eggs, carefully inspect the host plants for nymphs, and scan larger plants and trees for the well-camouflaged adults.
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How and Where Can You Find Smooth stick insect at Different Life Stages
Egg Smooth stick insect eggs are often laid in soil or plant debris. To find them, carefully sift through leaf litter or soil at the base of host plants.
Nymph Smooth stick insect nymphs are smaller and often found near the ground in dense grass or vegetation. Look for them by gently parting grass blades or inspecting the undersides of leaves in grassy areas.
Adult Smooth stick insect adults can be spotted on or around their host plants as they blend in with the foliage. At night, shine a flashlight into trees and bushes to catch the reflection of their eyes or to see their silhouettes against the leaves.
Are Smooth stick insect harmful?
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