Phasmatodea

~3,000

Described species

~14

Families

Introduction

Phasmatodea include the longest insects in the world. Phryganistria chinensis reaches 64 cm with legs extended. Masters of crypsis.

Field marks

Key ID traits.

Extreme body elongation (stick insects) or flattened leaf-mimicry (leaf insects). Some of the longest insects on Earth — up to 64 cm.

Etymology

Greek phasma 'apparition' + eidos 'form'

Wings

Variable

Diet

Herbivore

Habitat

Terrestrial

Notable examples

Walking sticks, leaf insects, Lord Howe Island stick insect, giant Malaysian stick insect.

Where to look