Two-striped walkingstick

Systematic position. The Anisomorpha buprestoides, commonly referred to as the two-striped walkingstick, belongs to the order Phasmatodea and the family Pseudophasmatidae. This insect is primarily known for its defensive chemical secretions, which it sprays when threatened, but it also functions as a significant foliage-feeding pest in its native range.

Host plants. This species is a generalist herbivore. It is known to feed on a variety of woody plants including oaks, magnolias, and various citrus species. In residential landscapes and ornamental gardens, it can cause severe damage when large populations aggregate on preferred host species during the summer months.

Biology and lifecycle. The species undergoes incomplete metamorphosis, passing through several nymphal stages before reaching adulthood. Eggs are deposited on the ground or leaf litter. The developmental period is closely linked to climatic conditions, with nymphs emerging in spring and maturing over several months to become active adults in the summer and autumn.

Damage and pest status. The two-striped walkingstick acts as a defoliator. Both nymphs and adults consume leaf tissue, which can result in significant skeletonization or total consumption of the leaves. High populations can severely stress host plants, leading to reduced vitality and aesthetic damage to shrubs and trees.

Control measures. Management strategies include:

• Visual monitoring of foliage during the spring and summer.
• Manual removal of insects in home garden settings.
• Application of registered contact or systemic insecticides during heavy outbreaks.
• Sanitation by clearing leaf litter where eggs may overwinter.