Phasmatodea


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Zoological Catalogue of Australia, Volume 23. Archaeognatha, Thysanura, Blattodea, Isoptera, Mantodea, Dermaptera, Phasmatodea, Embioptera, Zoraptera. (pp. 347 - 376)

J. Balderson, D.C.F. Rentz & A.M.E. Roach

Introduction

Phasmatodea, commonly known as stick insects, are large (35-240mm in length), terrestrial, often thamnophilus or tree-dwelling insects attaining the greatest abundance in tropical climes. In terms of length, they are among the world's largest insects. Most species show remarkable resemblance to plant parts, such as twigs, leaves and stems. Several species have been used widely in behavioural and physiological studies, while others have been of considerable use in cytological investigations.

Kevan (1982) estimated that 2500 species of Phasmatodea have been described worldwide. He also suggested that the real number of valid species among that total was uncertain because males and females of the same species have often been described under different names. Key (1991) estimated that the Australian fauna would probably reach about 150 species when all species are described. There are no endemic groups above the subfamily level.


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