Typophyllum mortuifolium, or maybe a damaged leaf with antennae

This one's for you Ferdy -- the torn appearance at the back of wings, the random little spots on the wings, and the large-ish "hole" in the center of the wings are all characteristics of this species that allow it to better mimic a damaged leaf.

comments (7)

Christine Young

Lion

Incredible creature! Posted 4 years ago
1. John Sullivan
  
  Lion
  
  I agree! And it's even more amazing when you see a second individual that looks just like this one. Posted 4 years ago
2. 1. Ferdy Christant
    
    Lion
    
    So all the fake damage, lichen, etc are exactly the same for the 2nd one? Insane! Posted 4 years ago
  2. 1. John Sullivan
      
      Lion
      
      Definitely the "torn" back edge and the "hole" are the same. I'm not sure about all the other little details. Posted 4 years ago
    2. 1. Ferdy Christant
        
        Lion
        
        Found another example:
        
        Compare to:
        https://www.flickr.com/photos/lpjconflickr/49438088613/
        
        Same holes, same moldy white.
        Posted 4 years ago, modified 4 years ago
      2. John Sullivan
        
        Lion
        
        Awesome. Camouflage is so cool. Posted 4 years ago

Christine Young

Lion

Today's Facebook post:

This leaf-mimicking katydid (Typophyllum mortuifolium) has remarkable camouflage! It's not just shaped like a leaf, but has details like a torn edge, a small hole, and random specks that are sure to fool even the most astute predator! It is incredible! {Spotted in Peru by JungleDragon moderator, John Sullivan} #JungleDragon #leafmimickingkatydid #Typophyllummortuifolium

John has sooo many awesome photos! Check them out here:
https://www.jungledragon.com/user/2539/popular

https://www.facebook.com/jungledragonwildlife Posted 4 years ago