Walking Leaf Nimf (Phyllium sp.)

Leaf Insect Nymph (Phyllium sp.) – The ultimate master of camouflage!

Are you looking for one of the most fascinating insects in the world? The Leaf Insect (Phyllium sp.) is an absolute eye-catcher in the terrarium. With their flat, oval green bodies, subtly mimicked leaf veins, and serrated legs, these animals are almost indistinguishable from a real ragged leaf. Even their only defense is purely based on camouflage: when in danger, they remain perfectly still and 'play dead'!

Development from tiny 'spider' to beautiful leaf

The development of a Leaf Insect is a wondrous process. When the nymphs first hatch from the egg, they are reddish-brown in color and resemble small spiders in their movement. As soon as they start feeding on fresh leaves, they gradually turn bright green. It takes almost a year and 8 molting stages before the animals are fully grown.

Simple Feeding: Fresh Bramble Leaves

The main diet of the Leaf Insect consists of bramble leaves, possibly supplemented with rose or oak leaves. Place the bramble branches in a small jam jar with water (with holes in the lid) to prevent nymphs or eggs from falling into the water. This keeps the leaves wonderfully fresh for 1 to 2 weeks. Always ensure that the leaves are 100% pesticide-free!

Housing and Handling Tips

A group of about five adult specimens needs a terrarium of at least **20 x 20 x 30 cm** (L x W x H) with good ventilation. They thrive well at room temperature (20 °C to 25 °C). Because young nymphs are very delicate, it's best to carefully move them using a spoon or let them crawl onto your hand when cleaning.

Virgin Reproduction (Parthenogenesis)

In captivity, females primarily reproduce *parthenogenetically* (virginally). This means that the unfertilized eggs laid will hatch after 5 to 6 months, exclusively producing female nymphs. A beautiful, natural process that is easy to maintain!

Key advantages at a glance:

• Incredible Camouflage: Indistinguishable from a real green leaf.
• Simple Feeding: Thrives excellently on readily available bramble leaves.
• Calm & Defenseless: Cannot bite, sting, or scratch.
• Room Temperature: Easy to keep between 20 °C and 25 °C.
• Home-bred: Healthy, strong nymphs bred directly by the breeder.

Product specifications:

• Species: Phyllium sp. (Leaf Insect / Giant Leaf)
• Quantity: 1 nymph
• Food: Bramble leaf (main food), rose leaf, oak leaf
• Temperature: 20 °C - 25 °C (room temperature)
• Humidity: Relatively dry with limited misting (drinks from fresh moist leaves)
• Recommended enclosure: Minimum 20x20x40 cm (well-ventilated)
• Origin: Home-bred

Bring a masterpiece of nature into your home. Order the Leaf Insect nymph.