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Lord howe island stick insect

Lord howe island stick insect

Dryococelus australis

A species of Dryococelus, Also known as Land lobster

Dryococelus australis, commonly known as the Lord Howe Island stick insect or tree lobster, is a species of stick insect that lives on the Lord Howe Island Group. It is the only member of the monotypic genus Dryococelus and was thought to be extinct by 1920, only to be rediscovered in 2001. It is extirpated in its largest former habitat, Lord Howe Island, and has been called "the rarest insect in the world", as the rediscovered population consisted of 24 individuals living on the small islet of Ball's Pyramid.

General Info About Lord howe island stick insect
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Attributes of Lord howe island stick insect
Colors
Brown
Black
Habitat
melaleuca shrub; trunk hollows; forest
Adult Food Sources
Melaleuca howeana leaves, coprosma leaves, metrosideros leaves, nothofagus leaves, pittosporum leaves
Larva Food Source
Melaleuca howeana leaves, coprosma leaves, metrosideros leaves, nothofagus leaves, pittosporum leaves
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Chewing mouthparts
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Species Status of Lord howe island stick insect
Critically endangered
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Distribution Area of Lord howe island stick insect
Australian
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Predators of Adult Lord howe island stick insect
Birds, rats, invertebrate predators such as larger spiders and possibly predatory beetles
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Interesting Facts About Lord howe island stick insect
Despite its plant-like appearance, lord howe island stick insect can skillfully evade predators with a rare ability to play dead, adding to its already remarkable camouflage.
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Scientific Classification of Lord howe island stick insect
Tips for Finding Lord howe island stick insect
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Youth Habitat of Lord howe island stick insect
Forests and Woodlands
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Habitat Preferences of Lord howe island stick insect Through Different Life Stages
Eggs of lord howe island stick insect are often dropped to the ground by females, mimicking seeds, so seeking them requires scouring leaf litter and soil. Nymphs tend to reside in the more protected lower canopy of vegetation, feasting on leaves, which provides clues for their search; inspecting the undersides of leaves is productive. Adults are commonly found higher up in trees and shrubs, looking among the foliage at night will increase chances of encountering them, as they are nocturnal and tend to be more active then. Each stage requires keen observation in these distinct habitats.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Lord howe island stick insect
The best time to find lord howe island stick insect is likely at night since many Phasmatidae species are nocturnal and more active during this time.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Lord howe island stick insect
Lord howe island stick insect might be easier to find during humid and warm weather conditions when they are likely to be more active and visible.
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How and Where Can You Find Lord howe island stick insect at Different Life Stages
Egg Lord howe island stick insect eggs often mimic plant seeds and might be found in the soil or leaf litter. To find them, carefully sift through the leaf litter or soil at the base of host plants.
Nymph Lord howe island stick insect nymphs are smaller and may closely resemble twigs or stems. Look for them on plants they commonly feed on, gently inspecting twigs and stems for any movement or irregularities.
Adult Lord howe island stick insect adults are larger and can be spotted on the foliage of host plants. Quietly searching at night with a flashlight, specifically looking for their distinct elongated bodies, can yield successful sightings.
Are Lord howe island stick insect harmful?
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Common Questions People Also Ask
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