Leaf Insect

About the Leaf Insect

The most extreme leaf mimic in nature - their body shape, color, veins, and even fake bite marks perfectly match real leaves. They sway when walking to simulate a leaf in wind. Their eggs look like seeds, complete with a nutritious appendage that ants carry to their nests, protecting the eggs. They are all female in some populations - reproducing parthenogenetically. Over 50 species. They were not described scientifically until 1792 despite being widespread. They are popular in the exotic pet trade. They can regenerate lost limbs.