Spiny Leaf Insect
ExploreInsects
Spiny Leaf Insect
Phasmatodea
The Spiny Leaf Insect is covered in little spikes and looks like a leaf! They are very good at hiding from other animals.
Habitat: Tropical forests
Appearance
The Spiny Leaf Insect has a flattened, leaf-like body covered in spines, giving it a rough, twig-like texture. Its mottled green, brown, or yellowish coloration perfectly mimics surrounding foliage, making it incredibly hard to spot among real leaves and twigs.
KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassInsectaOrderPhasmidaFamilyPhasmatidaeGenusExtatosoma
Category
InsectsRarity
Rare
Danger
2/5 · Low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
If a Spiny Leaf Insect loses a leg, it can grow a new one back over several molts!
Its eggs look exactly like plant seeds, complete with a tiny cap for the nymph to hatch from!
Males are much smaller and can fly, while females are larger and usually flightless.
Newly hatched Spiny Leaf Insect nymphs often mimic ants to deter predators.
Special abilities
Ability
Master of Disguise
Spiny Leaf Insect can perfectly camouflage among leaves and branches because of its spiky body and muted colors, helping them avoid predators.
Ability
Swaying Seeker
Spiny Leaf Insect can sway gently from side to side, mimicking a leaf blowing in the wind, which helps them further blend into their surroundings.
Ability
Virgin Birth
Spiny Leaf Insect has the ability to reproduce without a male, with females laying fertile eggs on their own, ensuring their species' survival.
Measurements & details
- Wingspan
- 70-100 mm
- Size
- 70-150 mm
- Lifespan
- 365-730 days
- Leg Count
- 6
Diet & Feeding
This insect is a strict herbivore, munching on a variety of leaves to get all its energy.
Primary Foods
- Eucalyptus leaves
- Acacia leaves
- Rose leaves
- Guava leaves
Foraging Method
- Foraging
Ecological connections
eaten by
Laughing Kookaburra
Dacelo novaeguineae
Preys on large insects, including stick insects.
eats
Blue Gum
Eucalyptus globulus
The primary food source for this insect.
eats
Silver Wattle
Acacia dealbata
A common alternative food source in their habitat.
Traits
Wildlife
Wildlife encompasses all undomesticated animal and plant life existing in their natural habitats.
Solitary
Solitary animals live alone for most of their lives, only interacting with others for mating or parental care.
Arboreal
Arboreal animals live primarily in trees, utilizing them for shelter, food, and protection from predators.
Camouflaged
Camouflaged describes organisms that possess coloring or patterns that allow them to blend into their environment.
Herbivorous
This trait characterizes organisms whose diet consists entirely or primarily of plant material.
Spiky/Thorny
Possessing sharp, pointed projections or spines on the body or surface.
Rainforest
This habitat trait refers to species found in tropical rainforests, characterized by high annual rainfall, high biodiversity, and dense tree cover.
Also known as
No aliases listed yet.
Collections
Safety
Danger
2/5 · Low
Do not touch or pick up. Some insects sting or bite. Ask an adult for help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spiny Leaf Insect's wingspan?
70-100 mm
How big is Spiny Leaf Insect?
70-150 mm
How long does Spiny Leaf Insect live?
365-730 days
What does Spiny Leaf Insect eat?
This insect is a strict herbivore, munching on a variety of leaves to get all its energy.
Where is Spiny Leaf Insect usually found?
Tropical forests
How does Spiny Leaf Insect hunt?
Foraging
How many legs does Spiny Leaf Insect have?
6
Snap Map
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