Common name : Tree lobster
Scientific name : Dryococelus australis
Family : Phasmatidae
Native to : Lord Howe Island Group, Ball’s pyramid
Interesting fact : Known to be the rarest insect in the world, there were only 24 insects left in the wild on the Ball’s pyramid island. They have been bred successfully in captivity since.
A variety of stick insects, this insect can grow up to 15 cm in length. Its physical attributes closely resemble those of a lobster. They have no wings but are fast runners. The male and female form bonds with the male following the female everywhere. Females lay eggs while hanging from trees. These eggs can even hatch 9 months later.
