Carausius morosus - Indian Stick Insect

[davidbarber1]

Hey all, I found this gal last night while checking buildings on my patrol. She did the swaying in the wind thing when I came up on her. While I was trying to coax her on my hand, a small bead of liquid came out of her mouth. I looked up behavior for these guys and did not find that mentioned. Afterward, she stuck her front legs out straight and looked exactly like a stick. These bugs are very interesting. I still can't figure out the drool. Chime in you insect pros. Enjoy the pics.

David

 

[Widowman10]

I still can't figure out the drool. Chime in you insect pros.

well, i'm far from an insect pro, but it looks like it might be 5-Hydroxytryptamine (or Serotonin). hope that helps at all.

 

[blazetown]

Does that mean I can eat this species saliva and then I won't have to sleep?

 

[Deroplatys]

Yeah spewing is normal for phasmids, they can either regurgitate or spray from pores behind their heads.
The one in your pics though definitely isnt an indian stick insect, although im not sure what species it is, just what it isnt

 

[davidbarber1]

Yeah spewing is normal for phasmids, they can either regurgitate or spray from pores behind their heads.
The one in your pics though definitely isnt an indian stick insect, although im not sure what species it is, just what it isnt

I looked it up and that is what it said it was. They are not indigenous to the area, obviously. They have already started populations all over CA.

David

 

[Deroplatys]

Carausius morosus have a red mark around the base of their front limbs which yours doesnt, plus the abdomen shape is completely different

 

[Acro]

Dont know what it is, but I know its not an Indian Stick.
Rocken cool bug though! Are you keeping it, or did you let it go?

 

[davidbarber1]

Carausius morosus have a red mark around the base of their front limbs which yours doesnt, plus the abdomen shape is completely different

Yeah, I saw the red plates on some other pics. You are right. Thanks.

David

 

[davidbarber1]

Dont know what it is, but I know its not an Indian Stick.
Rocken cool bug though! Are you keeping it, or did you let it go?

I take pics for the record and release all the critters I see.

David