Metallic stick insect

With a body length of up to 23 cm, the metallic stick insects are among the largest insects in Madagascar. As with other representatives of the stick insects, they are well camouflaged due to their resemblance to branches, although the males stand out due to their striking turquoise-blue coloration, while the females are inconspicuously brown. The purpose of the conspicuous coloration of the males is still unclear. It is debated whether this serves to attract females or whether it is intended to deter potential predators by signaling a supposed toxicity. Both sexes have reddish-colored wings which, despite their inability to fly, are presented with a conspicuous, loud rustling sound when threatened in order to irritate and deter predators.

In contrast to many other stick insect species, metallic stick insects do not have a seasonal reproductive phase, but reproduce all year round. Females lay 40 to 50 eggs, from which the larvae hatch after around 4 to 5 months. These reach sexual maturity after a further 4 to 6 months.


The metallic stick insect is endemic to Madagascar and inhabits a limited area in the north of the island. The species was only scientifically described in 2019. It was previously assigned to the species Achrioptera fallax. These two species have external similarities, although the males of A. fallax are green and not blue in color. In addition, there are other morphological differences, which only led to a clear distinction between the two species through genetic analysis.

Distribution