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Species |
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Foodplants |
This species will usually eat: Eucalyptus, Oak, Bramble, Hypericum |
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Cage Requirements |
- Cage should be at least 56 cm tall
- Should be partially enclosed, such as one full side of mesh and the rest non-perforated plastic or glass.
- Room temperature
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Misting |
Spray cage lightly every day with fine mist of water - just enough for the insects to have a drink and this also helps to keep the humidity up. |
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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 like to catapult or fling their ova (eggs) so you may hear some hitting the cage sides, but most will end up on the floor eventually. 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 |
6-8 months |
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Ova Success Rate |
21-40% |
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Months to Maturity |
Males about 5 months, females up to 7 months. |
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Lifespan |
Males 5 months, females about 8 months. |
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Notes |
Ova can be kept at room temperature. Place on paper towel with dry forest moss over top. Be mindful of mould growth and replace paper towel regularly. Nymphs can easily become trapped and die where there is too much condensation.
Males can glide through the air. Females can't fly but when disturbed they make a loud noise though stridulation. If disturbed more the females will bend up their abdomen and kick with their hind legs.
The relative humidity for nymphs is best 75% for adults is 65% fine. They prefer medium/high humidity but needs good ventilation. Younger nymphs are night active, while older nymphs and adults are also active during the day. Because of the enormous difference in size between young nymphs an adults, they should be kept apart. Best is to breed this species in different cages. |
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Difficulty Rating* |
Quite easy |
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Any Warnings* |
Sharp spines |
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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. |
