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Species |
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Foodplants |
This species will usually eat: Bramble, Oak, Rhododendron, Rose, Privet |
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Cage Requirements |
- Cage should be at least 23 cm tall
- Should have most or all sides ventilated, made from a material such as mesh.
- 70-75°F; temperatures above 80°F seem to harm them.
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Misting |
Spray cage once a week with a fine mist of water to allow the insects to drink the water droplets that will form from the spray. |
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Reproduction |
In this species, both males and females exist and they reproduce sexually, by mating, where the male transfers sperm to the female, which she uses to fertilise her eggs (ova). |
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Ova |
This species will drop their ova (eggs) on the floor, so its best to provide paper at the bottom of the cage to help collect the ova for removal for incubation or population control. |
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Ova Incubation Period |
4-6 months on slighty moist vermiculite, sand or kitchen paper. |
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Ova Success Rate |
40-60% |
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Months to Maturity |
4 Months for males and up to 6 months for females. |
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Lifespan |
Once reached maturity, up to 7 months - males life shorter. |
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Notes |
Distributed in SE states of USA (Florida etc.) and can tolerate quite dry conditions. They don't need much moisture, but when necessary lightly spray sides of the cage, not the insects/foodplants since they may well die if they or their foodplant are sprayed with water - even if purified.
Small nymphs will continue to eat the same bramble leaves until they are shredded to their veins rather than starting on uneaten leaves. Bramble for nymphs should be kept particularly fresh.
Adult couples can stay attached to each other until one dies. It is hard to uncouple the pair without damaging them. This is a hyper active species when disturbed.
There are also several colour variations: brown, orange or white but always with black stripes. |
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Difficulty Rating* |
Medium |
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Any Warnings* |
Chemical defence spray |
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Disclaimer: |
* Please note the warnings and difficulty rating are intended as an indicator only. The warnings are not an exhaustive list and other potentially dangerous behaviour may be exhibited by phasmids that is not listed here. Phasmids are wild creatures and should be treated with respect and handled with caution. Adults should always supervise children when handling phasmids. |
