Back
Sipyloidea sipylus (Westwood, 1859)
Family Name: | Heteronemiidae |
Taxonomic Group: | Invertebrates (Stick Insect) |
Common Name: | Pink Wing |
Name
Ecology, Habitat & Location
Ecological Notes | A very specialised feeder, capable of flight, hence it is able to search out its food plants easily. It may be found in primary and in undisturbed secondary forests as long as its food plants are present. It requires a very humid environment. |
---|---|
Habitats | Forest, Terrestrial |
Distribution | This is a very widespread species and may be found from Madagascar to Taiwan. It is seldom encountered in Singapore. Elsewhere, for example in Taiwan, it is very common and readily found even on roadside plants. |
Conservation
Trends & Threats | The main threat to these phasmids is the destruction of their food plants. Some of these species are rarely seen because their food plants are rare. Other reasons for their scarcity may be due to other very specific environmental requirements such as humidity, light and temperature. All are very sensitive to misuse of insecticides. |
---|---|
Scientific Interest & Potential Value | Of interest for their ability to regenerate lost limbs, during their nymphal stages, and their ability to reproduce by parthenogenesis. Males are non existent or very rare. The species is part of Singapore's natural heritage. |
Conservation Notes | Conservation of forests and preservation of the original forests habitats are most important for the continued survival of these species. |
Status
Species Status | Native |
---|---|
Singapore Red Data Book Status | Vulnerable (VU) [2008] |
Photos
References
References | Davison, G.W.H., Ng, P.K.L. & Ho, H.C (Eds.). 2008. The Singapore Red Data Book (2nd Edition). Singapore: Nature Society (Singapore). 285pp |
---|