Cryptic-morphology
Guides
Diapheromera carolina
Carolina Walkingstick
Diapheromera carolina is a walkingstick species in the family Diapheromeridae, commonly known as the Carolina walkingstick. It is native to the southeastern United States, with documented records from North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. As a member of the order Phasmida, it exhibits the characteristic cryptic morphology and behavior typical of walkingsticks.
Parandrinae
Parandrinae is a morphologically distinctive subfamily of longhorn beetles (Cerambycidae) comprising approximately 14 genera and over 120 described species worldwide. The group is notable for its atypical features among cerambycids: short, equal-segmented antennae rather than the elongated antennae characteristic of most longhorn beetles, and distinctly pentamerous tarsi with five visible segments. These traits produce a remarkable superficial resemblance to stag beetles (Lucanidae), leading to frequent misidentification. The subfamily has a disjunct global distribution with centers of diversity in South America and Africa, while North America contains only four taxa. Two tribes are recognized: Erichsoniini and Parandrini.
Phyllovates chlorophaea
Texas unicorn mantis
Phyllovates chlorophaea is a distinctive praying mantis species native to the southern United States, particularly Texas and neighboring states. It is commonly known as the Texas unicorn mantis due to the prominent horn-like projection extending from the top of its head. The species exhibits remarkable camouflage morphology, with an elongated body and leaf-like appearance that aids in ambush predation. It is considered one of the most visually striking native mantid species in North America and is highly regarded among mantis enthusiasts.
Stictomyia
Stictomyia is a small genus of picture-winged flies (family Ulidiidae) containing two described species. The genus is notable for its highly unusual morphology and ecology, particularly in Stictomyia longicornis, which exhibits beetle-like appearance and strong association with cacti. These flies are among the more aberrant members of the Ulidiidae, departing significantly from the typical wing-patterned, active-flying form of most picture-winged flies.
Trichochrous insignis
Trichochrous insignis is a species of jumping stick (family Proscopiidae), an exclusively Neotropical group of grasshoppers characterized by their stick-like appearance and elongated morphology. The species was described by Hebard in 1931 from Formosa Province, Argentina. Members of this family are commonly known in Spanish as 'bicho palito' (stick bug) and are distinguished from true walkingsticks (order Phasmida) by their jumping ability and grasshopper affinities. The taxonomy of Proscopiidae remains incomplete, with many species potentially undescribed.