Belize Black Stick Insect
Anisomorpha monstrosa
Distribution,
Climate & Habitat: found in the drier regions of Mexico and Belize
Size: : females
can approach 9 centimetres in length; males are smaller at around
4.5 centimetres
Appearance:a chunky, glossy black insect that lacks wings. An orange stripe runs down each side of the body. The combination of black and orange serves as a warning colouration to predators. The antennae are almost as long as the body
Habits:
often found scattered among the foliage in pairs, the smaller male perched on
the larger female
Fascinating Fact:
this species can spray chemicals from glands on the thorax when threatened by
a predator. These chemicals can cause sneezing and temporary blindness in man
and can be directed towards the attacker at over a distance of 3 - 6 centimetres