Australian Magpie Moth vs Short-winged Green Stick Insect
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Australian Magpie Moth | Short-winged Green Stick Insect |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Nyctemera amica | Acanthoxyla inermis |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Phasmatodea |
| Family | Erebidae | Phasmatidae |
| Size | 35-45 mm wingspan | 80-110mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Underground |
| Diet | Predators | Herbivores |
| Regions | Australia, New Zealand | Oceania |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Australian Magpie Moth
A striking day-flying black and white moth from Australasia. Caterpillars feed on groundsel and ragwort, sequestering toxic alkaloids. The bold pattern warns predators of its toxicity.
Did You Know?
Its bold black and white pattern serves as a warning to predators that it contains toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids.
Short-winged Green Stick Insect
A smooth bright green stick insect native to New Zealand. All known individuals are female. It has tiny vestigial wings that are useless for flight. It feeds on a wide variety of native plants.
Did You Know?
No males have ever been found for this species; the entire population reproduces through obligate parthenogenesis.