Stick insect Brockphasma spinifemoralis - Exotic insect for breeding and observation

The stick insect (Brockphasma spinifemoralis) is a fascinating insect native to tropical Southeast Asia. This large, spiny insect has a unique morphology with a robust thorax, slender forelegs, and thin antennae that allow it to blend in perfectly with vegetation. Its camouflage mimics twigs, lichen, or dry leaves, protecting it from predators such as spiders, birds, and reptiles like lizards and snakes.

Unlike some smoother stick insect species, Brockphasma spinifemoralis exhibits marked sexual dimorphism: the larger female (7-8 cm) has a broader abdomen and robust hind legs, while the smaller male (5-6 cm) is more mobile. Mating results in sexual fertilization, although some females may lay eggs fertilized by parthenogenesis.

---

🦗 Breeding Sheet: Stick Insect Brookphasma spinifemoralis

Difficulty: Easy to raise, ideal for entomology enthusiasts and breeders wishing to observe the insect's life cycle from larva to adult. This species has the particularity of changing completely during its first molts.

Temperature: 22-28°C (ideal room temperature, possible use of a heating mat in cold weather).

Humidity: 70-80% (humidify regularly with a light spray).

Food: Blackberry leaves (Rubus fruticosus), privet, oak, raspberry, ivy, hazel, and sometimes eucalyptus. It is recommended to use a substrate of blond peat or potting soil to maintain good humidity.

Reproduction: The female lays eggs that incubate for 4 to 6 months depending on breeding conditions. The young larvae hatch and go through several larval stages before reaching adult size: this is the imago.

Behavior: Calm, active especially in the evening. Good mimicry, often immobile in near catalepsy to avoid predation. It can share its habitat with other exotic insects such as crickets, grasshoppers, or cockroaches in a well-ventilated vivarium.

Lifespan: 8 to 14 months after hatching.

Size :

• Females: 7-8 cm, with well-marked spines.

• Males: 5-6 cm, thinner and more mobile.

Recommended habitat:

• Well-ventilated terrarium or insectarium (mosquito netting recommended to prevent mold and ensure good ventilation).

• Natural substrate : blond peat, bark, paper towels or potting soil.

• Branches and foliage for climbing and hanging on.

Breeder's Anecdote: Some specimens adopt a brown coloration reminiscent of pieces of wood, while others display a green hue with patterns resembling lichen. Their legs, segmented and equipped with spines, allow them to passively defend themselves against predators such as assassin bugs or insectivorous birds.

Why choose Brockphasma spinifemoralis?

• Easy to raise, even for beginners in entomology.
• Suitable for a terrarium, vivarium or natural enclosure.
• Simple and accessible food: bramble leaves, privet and other plants.
• Docile behavior, easy handling.
• Ideal for observing the life cycle of the world's insects, from egg-laying to final molt into the adult stage.

Buy your Brockphasma spinifemoralis Stick Insect today and watch this wonder of nature evolve before your eyes!