Australian Walking Stick Nimf (PSG 9) - Extatosoma tiaratum

Australian Leaf Insect Nymph (PSG 9) – A unique 'cactus' insect from Australia!

Are you looking for a special and spectacular stick insect? The Australian leaf insect (Extatosoma tiaratum / PSG 9) originates from Australia and New Guinea and is incredibly popular worldwide. With their striking protrusions, spines, and robust legs, these animals resemble a whimsical cactus or a withered leaf more than a common branch.

Big difference between males and females

As the nymphs grow, the differences between the sexes become increasingly clear. The females grow impressively large (up to 15 cm long), are sturdily built, brown (or very occasionally green) in color, and covered in spines. Males remain a lot slimmer at around 12 to 13 cm and develop long antennae and functional wings!

Simple feeding: Reared on fresh bramble leaves

Our nymphs are raised on **bramble leaves**, which can be found fresh in nature everywhere, even during winter. We recommend feeding bramble leaves upon receipt. You can optionally mix this with leaves from raspberry, oak, rose, hazel, or eucalyptus to accustom the insects to variety. Always ensure that the food is 100% pesticide-free!

Housing and Environmental Requirements

The Australian leaf insect thrives at room temperature (20 °C to 30 °C). Because the females grow quite large, a tall enclosure is very important. For an adult specimen, a terrarium of at least **45 cm high and 30 cm wide** is required (at least 3x the length of the animal in height). Lightly mist the enclosure 2 to 3 times a week with a plant sprayer so that the nymphs can drink from the water droplets.

Reproduction: Sexual and Parthenogenetic

This species can reproduce both sexually (with a male) and parthenogenetically (virgin, without a male). You can keep males and females together in one enclosure without problems. The eggs are round brown spheres that hatch after 4 to 6 months (fertilized) or after 6 to 12 months (unfertilized) when the substrate is kept lightly moist at approx. 25 °C.

Key advantages at a glance:

• Spectacular Forms: Unusual spiky 'cactus' appearance.
• Reared on Bramble Leaves: Eats easily available food year-round.
• Calm & Peaceful Character: Easy and safe to handle.
• Room Temperature: Thrives well between 20 °C and 30 °C.
• From Our Own Breeding: Healthy, strong nymphs raised directly from our own breeding facility.

Product specifications:

• Species: Extatosoma tiaratum (Australian Leaf Insect / PSG 9)
• Quantity: 1 nymph (sex not always visible at this stage)
• Food: Bramble leaves (recommended), raspberry, oak, rose, hazel, eucalyptus
• Temperature: 20 °C - 30 °C (room temperature)
• Humidity: Lightly mist 2-3 times a week
• Shipping: Carefully packaged via parcel post
• Origin: Own breeding

Experience the joy of raising this fantastic insect. Order the Australian leaf insect nymph today!