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Study Group .V CHAIRMAN: Judith Marshall. - Dept. of Entomology, The Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, London SW7 5BD. (Tel: 020 7942 5610; FAX 020 7942 5229) E-mail: [email protected].

TREASURER/MEMBERSHIP: Paul Brock. "Papillon", 40 Thorndike Road, Slough, Berks. SL2 1SR. (Tel: 01753 579447) E-mail: Not currently available on e-mail i'

SECRETARY: Phil Bragg. 8 The Lane, Awsworth, Nottinghamshire, NG16 2QP. (Tel: 0115 9305010). Pictures as featured inside this Newsletter!!

DECEMBER 2002 NEWSLETTER No 93 ISSN 0268-3806

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Newsletter 93.1

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January 18th; Saturday, 11.30 am F*SG AGM zyxwvutsrqponmlkjihgfedcbaZYXWVUTSRQPONMLKJIHGFEDCBA& Winter Meeting Spencer Gallery, Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, London. [Note the change of room, re refurbishment].

February 9th; Sunday Bugs & Beasties Show Selby, North Yorkshire (Contact Steve, www.bugsnstuff.co.uk).

NB Steve is looking for some Phasmid Exhibitors — can you help?

April 6th; Sunday, 10.30 am Spring Entomological Show (formerly Kettering Show) Kettering Leisure Village (Contact Jack Harris, 01455 444792). [It's like a mini AES Exhib, Ed.] British Tarantula Society Exhibition May 2003 — more details in next Newsletter

Nature Matters Event June 2003 — Has anyone any details on this?

F*SG Summor Meeting July 2003 - more details after the AGM.

Invertebrate Day at Colchester Zoo 17 August 2003 — more details in article in this Newsletter.

Lincoln Invert Show September 2003 - Has anyone any details on this?

West of England Oreepy Crawly Show Has anyone any details on this?

AES Exhibition October 2003 — more details later.

PLEASE CHECK WITH THE ORGANISERS THAT SHOWS ARE STILL ON, G AT TIMES SHOWN, BEFORE SETTING OUT - THE RSG CANNOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR A WASTED JOURNEY.

1FT YOU ARE AWARE OF AISfY AnntT^QNAL, SHOW^S ^v^oLv^isrc? PHAstvfiins, OR OT> ER JISJSEQTS, SPIDERS, ETC?, HOWEVER Rl

The Phasmid Study Group is invited to exhibit at some show s. If you w ould like to help run our stand, please contact the member named, or Paul Jennings, our Exhibitions and Meeting Officer: 89 Brackensdale Avenue, Derby, DE22 4AF, Tel: 01332 343477.

IF YOU ATTEND THESE OR OTHER SHOWS, PLEASE SEND IN A REVIEW FOR THE NEWSLETTER.

Newsletter 93.2 Editorial

Welcome to the December issue of the PSG Newsletter, on behalf of the PSG Committee may I wish you all a very MERRY CHRISTMAS and a HAPPY NEW YEAR

This is yet another Christmas, bumper bundle issue! Our members have again been very generous with their contributions - thanks; there are items on all sorts of subjects. I've put a lot of time and effort into this Newsletter as well, and I sincerely hope there is something here for everyone!

When I first took over as editor of the Newsletter, very few contributions were forthcoming. I therefore make only a small apology for all the gentle "arm twisting" I've done to get contributions, since the resulting Newsletters are all the better for it. However, it was suggested to me that the apparent high quality of the Newsletter may put off members from contributing, in case their own contribution looks inferior. Please send me a contribution to the Newsletters anyway - once a contribution has been put in print, spell-checked, and given a fancy title and a picture, it will always look fantastic. I'll make sure all your contributions look great; you just keep sending them in.

You may have noticed that the front sheet is in colour We are much indebted to PSG member, and regular Newsletter contributor, Cameron, for this. We could only have one page in colour, so I decided the front page would have most impact. Hope you all agree. And doesn't Joy's excellent picture on the front cover look great in colour. Special thanks, therefore to Cameron and Joy.

Owing to some changes, this is the last Newsletter to be printed by the Open University. They have given us an excellent service, so a big thank you to David Robinson and his team. Future Newsletters will be by another printer (that may be able to print occasional pages in colour at a reasonable price ). Negotiations are currently taking place - so look out for the next Newsletter.

However, unless you renew your membership, you will not receive another Newsletter. So please do not forget to send in your renewal form at back of this Newsletter. The prices are the same as last year (and they were good then!) - there will be no other reminders. (If you lose this form, membership details are also on the PSG Website: www.stickinsect.org.uk).

With the last Newsletter was a copy of a PSG Newsletter index compiled by John Sellick, apologies to John because some of the tabs were not right, making the lines look untidy.

Finally, a reminder that I just edit the Newsletter. Therefore, I'm the one to contact if you have a contribution for it. I enjoy hearing from you, but it would save your time if you contacted the right committee member to handle your queries, rather than contacting me in the first instance. Eg details of your change of address, or non-receipt of Newsletters should go to the Membership Secretary, requests for livestock (unless it is to be advertised in the Newsletter) should go to the Livestock Co-ordinator, etc. Anyway, enjoy this Newsletter.

Regards to all, and have a great Christmas!

MIKE SMITH

REQUEST FOR ARTI CLES. ETC FOR THE PSG NEWSLETTER

Please send me your articles, reviews on shows and meetings, wants & exchanges, drawings, photos, phasmid problems, \\\ answers to problems, crosswords, quizzes, puzzles, comments, web site details, etc, etc. My details are at the back of each Newsletter. Also send me your ideas or comments on the Newsletters. Many thanks, Ed/ t or.

Newsletter 93.3 SUCCESSFUL Sung ay a inexpectata PSG 195

By Cameron Die Konigin Introduction

Sungaya inexpectata, despite its common occurrence in culture, is quite a recent addition to the Phasmid list. It was discovered on Luzon, one of the Philippine islands in 1995 as one lone female and from which all current cultures have descended. (See drawing).

It is a member of the Heteropteryginae but, unlike its relatives, such as Haniella and Heteropteryx, it is very easy to maintain being not too particular in its requirements, and breeding readily.

A mild mannered species, it takes to handling well and quite often plays dead and therefore remaining motionless - attributes that make it ideal for the younger Phasmid collector, where more aggressive species such as Haniella are not.

Sungaya in culture are all females and therefore they reproduce parthenogenetically. From the literature and correspondences that I have read, no males have ever been found and this species has always, in its short history, been parthenogenetic. Therefore the description below applies to the female only!

Description Ova These are quite distinctive. They resemble miniature versions of a witch's cauldron being almost spherical and, when moist, black in colour with a flat lid sitting on the top. Close up, they have a characteristic three armed pattern on one side and are pitted all over (see picture). They do become paler when allowed to dry out, becoming grey.

Nymphs After approximately five months the ova hatch, each producing a dark grey nymph without any distinctive markings, spines or patterning, and about one inch long. After the first moult the colour lightens and a minimal amount of patterning appears but otherwise the only difference is that the nymph is a little larger. Subsequent moults however result in a more dramatic change in colour, patterning and shape.

From the second moult onwards, the nymphs change to a much paler colour, a very light brown that can sometimes be so light that the nymphs can often appear white when seen against a dark background. Green patches that appear on the head, thorax and legs give the appearance that the nymphs are actually weathered pieces of stone that have the first appearance of mossy growth and enhances this paleness. The green markings can vary from one specimen to another (I have seen a photograph of a specimen that had considerable areas of green that covered more than half of the body) and seem to be most pronounced when the nymphs are raised in quite humid conditions.

Newsletter 93.4 It is also at this stage that the spines and appendages begin to appear. They never develop to the extreme seen in other members of the Heteropteryginae being rather small and many of them barely noticeable but they are produced throughout the body, head and legs. There are, however, four pointed spines that are produced on the upper side of the thorax that although are not very high do have very broad bases and these are all the more noticeable as they are coloured only on one side by darker triangular markings that give the appearance of a shadow therefore accentuating their size. The back of the head also develops a noticeable 'crown' of small spines and a distinctive upright flap develops on the abdomen near to the ovipositor.

From the fourth moult onwards the nymphs tend to lose the green colouration and the general colour of the whole body tends to darken to a mid brown with darker patches throughout. The pointed humps on the thorax become more prominent and characteristic V-shaped markings appear down the abdomen. The upright flap near the tip to the abdomen begins to diminish in size.

Throughout all the stages, the nymphs have a characteristic posture that is only lost once the adults become heavily laden with ova. The head is kept lower than the rest of the body when they are at rest, with the abdomen being raised into the air. This is produced not only by the way the insect rests but also by their front limbs being shorter than the rear ones.

Adults After the final moult, the adult Sungaya attains a length of zyxwvutsrqponmlkjihgfedcbaZYXWVUTSRQPONMLKJIHGFEDCBA 3 V2 inches (head to tip of abdomen) but in additional to this are the long antennae that add considerably to the length. Initially, the adult is a sand colour with darker patches throughout the whole body and legs, especially on the thorax and abdomen where they form vague zigzag patterns. There are small spines found throughout and on the legs small appendages. There is also the characteristic ovipositor that, along with the rest of the abdomen, is raised up in the air as mentioned previously.

As the ova develop within, the abdomen swells considerably and shortly afterwards laying commences. During this period, the distinctive patterning begins to fade, and the lighter colours darken, so that the gravid female becomes an overall light brown colour.

As adult, Sungaya has a long life expectancy. The first of the ova laid will have hatched and reached maturity some weeks before the adults begin to die off.

Culture

Accommodation I keep my Sungaya in a glass tank that has a clear Perspex lid with a number of holes drilled through for ventilation. The base of the tank has one to two inches of compost that is kept permanently damp and in which they lay the ova; therefore the environment in which they live is quite humid, the compost supplying humidity and the glass and lid reducing water loss. I have Newsletter 93.5 raised Sungaya in much drier conditions with just as much success so the humid environment is not essential.

Diet Not too fussy in their dietary requirements, Sungaya will eat a range of food plants; blackberry {Rubus fruticosus) constitutes the staple diet but they have readily taken raspberry (Rubus idaeus), oak (Quercus), and beech (Fagus) and they would probably take many more if the opportunity were given.

Reproduction Within a month or so of maturing the females become noticeably broader as the ova develop within them and the laying commences. As mentioned earlier, this species do not require mating for fertile ova to be laid.

The ova are usually laid within the substrate provided, approx. Vi inch deep although this is not always so as sometimes the females will drop the ova upon the surface with no effort made to bury them and with no detrimental effect.

Ova can be left in situ to hatch although I find it easy to remove them and place them into clear containers so that when the nymphs begin to emerge, they are easily spotted and cared for rather than getting lost in the adult tank. I often find that the ova have been laid in small batches within the substrate so when you find one you can often find several others very close by which makes searching for them much easier.

When the ova are removed from the parent tank, some of them can be found to be infected with a white fungus. What is usually seen with an infection is the capitulum (ova lid) has been lifted up and the white fungal growth just slightly protruding from around the rim.

Unless you have good eyesight, it can sometimes be difficult to tell if ova have been infected or not because they can be covered in soil, so to make it easier, place the ova into a bowl of tepid water and they will separate from the soil. Another advantage of dropping them into the warm water is that any ova that float are invariably mouldy whereas those that sink are not, although it is still worth checking the sunken ones to ensure that they are uninfected (I use this method for all species that bury their ova in the soil, it doesn't seem to be so reliable for species that simply drop their ova as these invariably float).

The ova do not necessarily need to be reburied, but kept on a layer of moist substrate (compost, peat, or vermiculite) where they will hatch after approximately five months.

Once hatched, the nymphs are fed on the listed food plants and no special care is needed, with the nymphs readily taking to the leaves of the adult food plant. They are housed in the same way as the parents and with very little attention required. 1 rarely, if ever, spray them with water, all the moisture they need coming from the leaves that they ingest.

Newsletter 93.6 Appendix

In an article (see references) written by Oliver Zompro, who discovered the original female, he described that the single Sungaya female was found in habitat not normally occupied by Heteropteryginae - rough, dry terrain. The unexpected habitat for this stick insect is where the specific name, inexpectata, is derived from.

The colouration of this species would lend itself to such drier habitats as already described; this species tends to be much more 'stone' in colour whereas many of the other Heteropteryginae tend to match themselves either to green leaves or forest floor leaf litter/wood.

Since the original discovery of the lone female, Oliver Zompro in another locality in very similar habitat has found further specimens but again they have all been female. At the time of writing no males are known to exist. . ft. References

i. The Amazing World of Stick and Leaf Insects - Paul D. Brock 2. Rearing Stick and Leaf Insects - Ronald N. Baxter 3. VDA aktuell 1.99 January-March issue (German zoological magazine). It describes Oliver Zompro's original discovery of Sungaya

Acknowledgements

Thanks to Timm Reinhardt for providing the Sungaya article from the above listed magazine and Oliver Zompro for his experiences with collecting Sungaya in the wild.

Sungaya available

A small number of adults and nymphs are available. See the Wants & Exchange page.

Cameron D K, you are an amazing chap. I am really grateful for the thoroughly researched articles you produce for the Newsletter, including your own drawings, time and time again. Where would the PSG Newsletter be without you? I know you also put much effort into other aspects of stick insect keeping too -I'm sure many readers will know exactly what I mean. On behalf of the PSG, and everyone else you have given your kind assistance to over the year, may I wish you a very Merry Christmas, a Happy New Year and please keep them articles coming in!

Newsletter 93.7 A. special wessAge fVow-» PSG mcrvtber SAI-AV» Bowben: To everyone in the PSG -

Firstly, an apology to everyone expecting answers to queries etc earlier in the year. Owing to unexpected circumstances, I was unable to reply to your letters or phone calls.

Secondly, a big thank you to everyone who re-homed some of my insects for me at short notice.

If anyone would like to write to me (all previous correspondence has unfortunately been lost), my new address is:-

19A DUKE STREET, TAUNTON, SOMERSET, TA1 1SR.

Editor's note: Everyone will remember Sarah from her front page picture, and witty article - see September 2001 Newsletter. Others will also remember her generosity in helping anyone out when in need of sticks or ova. I have personally been a recipient in re-homing some of Sarah's stock; I am greatly indebted to Sarah for introducing me to so many new varieties of stick. So, Hi Sarah, great to have you back fit and well again!

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

PHASMID COLLECTING METHODS

By Michael Yeh (Website: www.angelfire.com/yt/kpyehi/index.html)

To ensure successful collecting in the tropics, the methods and condition should be different from those in the western hemisphere. It is with hope that the following personal experiences will be of help. Do remember never to over collect and to release all damaged females and specimens which you do not need.

EQUIPMENT Tagesoidea nigrofasciata

Butterfly net, containers/plastic bags for phasmids, torch lights/spare battery for night phasmids collecting, long stick for beating bushes, leech spray, mosquito repellent, used serviceable car battery (with connecting light bulb ) as cheap source for light trapping (obtainable locally), and water.

PHASMIDS NIGHT COLLECTING

The most successful method of collecting stick is using a torch light walking up and down any jungle path or even any trunk road leading up hill stations at night. Be sure you have a companion for safety. Shine torch on short grass or bushes at ground level and overhanging branches. Take a little time to adjust the eyes to detect them. Use plastic bags or plastic containers to store them to prevent death or damages.

DAYTIME COLLECTING

Day collecting depends on a pair of keen eyes and knowledge of the right food plant which one will learn to recognize in times. However, the best method is, if you lack the above qualifications, by using a long stick to beat around and winged species will come out gliding and fall on the ground or on some branches. Keep an eye on the when you beat the bushes. For species without wings, learn to differentiate between the falling branches and sticks and determine which the real one is.

Newsletter 93.8 - The Ugly Duckling or an unexpected beauty? By Timm Reinhardt

"MMMPFF...". - was literally the sound that could be heard leaving my mouth when I first saw the boxful of small, dark brown, stick-insect nymphs that had been carefully unpacked from the parcel lying on the desk in front of me late in 1999. "Pseudophasma rufipes? Not actually the most extraordinary species" I thought to myself, not knowing, on first sight, how soon this unspectacular species would become one of my all time favourite Phasmid species.

Pseudophasma / rufipes (Redtenbacher, 1906) from Peru, previously known as Paraphasma rufipes, is a member of the subfamily of Pseudophasma- tinae. With an average size of 8 cm for the winged females, the species is not remarkably large. While darker brown and black are most predominant in the nymphs and adults body colour, the name P. rufipes (Lat. Rufus = red, Rufipes = red foot/feet) implies the special surprise waiting to be exposed to the patient breeder. Additionally, larger nymphs and adults also show curiously white striped antennae and yellowish knees and tibiae. Although males are known to occur in the wild the species is parthenogenetic in culture. Still, the absence of males seems not to influence the breeding success greatly.

My new nymphs soon moved into a rather roomy enclosure with good ventilation, which proved to be perfectly suitable. Like a large number of species belonging to the Pseudophasmatinae (e.g. Anisomorpha spp., etc.) Pseudophasma rufipes clearly prefers to feed on privet (Ligustrum spp.), which is readily available when you are living in a town with a privet hedge lining the front yard of almost every second house. (Either ask the owner first, or go and get some dark clothing and a pair of sharp scissors to do a fast job when no one is watching).

As time went on the nymphs settled down, moulted several times, and their wing-buds grew remarkably. After approximately 3 months, the small nymphs had grown to healthy winged adult females. During this time I had already gathered all kinds of information on this species, and was extremely thrilled to see the often described red hind wings in action for the first time. My females stubbornly refused to reveal their beauty in my presence until a particular day when I was changing the food plants, two young females simultaneously spread their large wings and set off from the open cage door to fly around the room in large circles, resembling two enormous bright red butterflies. After some rounds both came back to land and sit down on my head and the wall behind me, leaving me stunned and wondering about this unexpected sight.

Like the plum coloured hind wings in the male Heteropteryx dilatata, or the tiny wings of Phaenopharos and Orxines spp., Pseudophasma uses its coloured wings as a startle display to scare potential predators. However, due to the fact that Pseudophasma rufipes is actually capable of flying, the display is also believed to fulfil another defence purpose.

Newsletter 93.9 When the insect is molested or threatened by a predator (e.g. mammals, reptiles or raptorial insects but especially birds), it can unexpectedly unfold the flashing wings and take a flight to safety. The bird (or whatever kind of predator) now focuses on the sight of the large red wings and, in order to satisfy its hunger, follows them. While the bird is still looking for the attractive red thing promising a reasonable meal, the insect can settle down on some branch and hide, the red becoming invisible again. Hence the insects can rely on its crypsis again, leaving a totally confused bird.

Meanwhile my own females had started to lay their first eggs, grey barrel-like things with an interesting wave like structure, similar to the ova Lamponius spp. I am incubating these eggs like those of all my other species on moist peat at room temperature (21-13°C). My females were not terribly prolific but produced enough eggs, and after 3-4- months the small mosquito like nymphs pushed the lids (opercula) of their eggs open to complete the circle of life.

In general Pseudophasma rufipes is a rather easy species to breed. Nevertheless there are a few problems arising keeping this species, which I really had to learn from experience.

Firstly, P.rufipes absolutely must not be sprayed with water directly, and cannot stand too humid conditions; consequently a good ventilated cage is needed. Only the tank's bottom should be sprayed frequently, to provide the necessary humidity for the nymphs to moult properly.

Secondly, the fresh shoots that privet plants produce in spring can be toxic especially for younger nymphs.

Thirdly, like most members of the Pseudophasmatinae, Pseudophasma rufipes is capable of emitting a defence odour that can possibly affect mucous membranes, although the Pseudophasma odour is much less powerful than, for example those of Anisomorpha or Malacomorpha.

Pseudophasma rufipes may not be the most spectacular species of stick insects, not on first sight, but I can only encourage anyone who has the necessary patience and care to try and see how this 'Ugly Duckling' turns into a 'Swan'. At least for me, the fascination arising from this species, has really made me fond of all the related members of the Pseudophasmatinae, the black winged P. acanthonota, the striped Anisomorpha, the warty Creoxylus, the poison squirting Malacomorpha, the strange Alleophasma and all the others.

References: Paul D. Brock: Rearing and studying Stick and Leaf insects; 1992 Dieter Schulten: Entom. Mitt. Lobbecke-Museum +Aquazoo Beiheft 3, Wandelnde Blatter, Stab- und Gespenstschrecken

Special thanks to: Cameron Die-K6nigin for encouragement and correction reading.

Newsletter 93.10 FHASMIDS IN QUEENSLAND

By Austin Crompton

Here is a short account of the phasmids I found during a visit to Queensland (Australia) during June 2001. The location was the Mission Beach area a few miles south from Cairns. My identifications were made using local wildlife guides and as you will see are fairly non specific apart from one very familiar exception I could not identify any to species level for certain.

1) Megacrania sp. Probably batesii. This was easy to locate but extremely local. The giveaway signs were chewed leaves of the foodplant Pandanus sp. Not all the plants in an area would show signs of herbivory and the feeling was that this species was rare but was at least easy to locate due to the very noticeable bite marks on the Aloe like plant. All stages could be found at the bases of the leaves during the day. I found old adult females small nymphs in the mission beach area but further north, at Mossman, I found adult males and females. The large eggs could be found amongst the droppings in the leaf bases. These incredible sticks resemble a slimmer winged Eurycantha with an almost turquoise green colouration, the males in particular are very blue. The females would spray a peppermint smelling white fluid from thoracic glands with very little provocation, the smell being incredibly strong. I found Megacrania in both locations very close to beaches where the Pandanus are one of the first plants to be found, at the stable beach edge, along with coconut palms. The sticks could be found from 2 feet above ground level and chewed leaves could be seen in the tallest plants, which I'm guessing were 15 feet tall.

2) A large winged female Ctenomorphodes like species was found in rough cleared areas near roadsides, a total of three of these were seen. They were around 15cm long and at least one had legs missing and several mites attached.

3) A small Sipyloidea like species were to be found at night in clearings, both sexes seen, females approximately 6cm with males at 4cm.. 4) The most widespread and common species I found looked like a Baculum, at least superficially, as it had tiny pointed 'ears' on its head. Paul Brock sent me a photograph of Austrocarausius sp which is almost certainly what it was. Females found but also one mating pair. Again in clearings at low level.

5) An unidentified first? Instar nymph of what reminded me of Tirachoidea sp.

6) The crowning (maybe an appropriate use of words considering the specific name? Any language experts tell me otherwise) glory of my finds was the very popular but much troubled Extatosoma tiaratum. During to a tough cycle ride to the doctors (I managed to get Giardiasis) I stopped by the roadside to stem my nausea and about 6 feet up on a Hibiscus? plant was a fat penultimate instar female. I got her down to verify the species and get a closer look at a wild E.t. I didn't use a key but this insect was certainly the same species as we have in culture, I was actually disappointed that it looked just like the cultured animals, I was hoping for some variation not seen in our captive stock, but I was very happy anyway.

So to the end of my account, generally I found sticks hard to find, I imagine that the summer months would be more fruitful for sticks. Weather during my stay was coo! nights around 15-18 Celsius and warmer days 18-22 Celsius with rain most mornings.

Wish my "cool" winter nights were 15-18 Celsius! 1 bet most of us are jealous of that - Editor.

Newsletter 93.11 ScGptrophasma hispidula (PSG 1 83)

An article by Rachael Marriott, PSG Member 1992

(Rachael, I recall you were the winner of the PSG t* p~~-—k. ejQm. JLM£ One Ulirfton J^,^^

I recently discovered that PSG 183, Sceptrophasma £00,000 '*^KJ$^2 hispidula, had been eating pyracantha. I put the plant in the tank along with some bramble, just to try them on it, because winter is coming soon so I had to find a plant which could see them through it.

After a while on the pyracantha, they seemed to quite like it. Even the young nymphs were eating it right through until they were adults at the egg-laying stage.

I found all this out just by having them for four years. I am amazed by the fact that none of them have died from this plant, because I was not too sure about giving it to them at first, in case it killed them off. But, thankfully, it has not done that so far.

(Thank you Rachael for this excellent article. I note the culture list only shows that PSG 183s eat bramble, oak, and raspberry. I know many sticks do accept pyracantha, especially those that like bramble, but it is very useful and reassuring to know specifically that it should be safe for Sceptrophasma hispidula. If anyone wants some ova of this species, see the Wants & Exchange page).

MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL DUE For anyone who does not read my editorial — just a reminder that your membership subs for 2003 is now due. Same low prices as last year! Please complete the membership form at the back of this Newsletter, or use the membership details in the PSG Website: www.stickinsect.orq.uk. There can be no other reminders - sorry.

QERMAI AETHEOPODA PSG member, Timm Reinhardt, has kindly agreed to translate from German to English, articles from German Arthropoda, which might be suitable for our PSG Newsletter. If there is anyone who receives German Arthropoda, or can advise me on how to get copies, please would you contact me. Many thanks, Mike Smith Tel 01376 584388 e-mail [email protected].

Newsletter 93.12 Invertebrate Day at Colchester Zoo By Mike Smith

On Sunday 18 August, the PSG had a stand at Colchester Zoo. It was their first Creepy Crawly Day (see March 2002 Newsletter, page 90.20 for details).

Being out in the sticks of Essex, it was left to us country-dwellers to man the stall. So me, my daughter Tracey, Lois Dawson, her granddaughter Chloe Murphy, and a couple of Chloe's friends, made our debut at running a PSG stand.

Determined to put on a good show, Lois and I spent considerable effort planning and preparing for the big day. We had posters, photos, merchandise, pamphlets, leaflets, and a selection of sticks to show. t'j Mm iJ Lois had the idea of running a free drawing competition for the children, with a book on stick insects as a prize. She even arranged for one of the Zoo keepers to judge the pictures. The other \4 i thing Lois arranged was to allow the careful handling of PSG No 1s that she brought in for that purpose (see photo of Lois above, left).

I was a bit concerned when the BTS set up a stall right beside us. They had tarantulas, scorpions, a snake (see photo of Chloe on the right), videos, and a TV, etc, etc. And it was manned by their chairman Andrew Smith (no relation to me). I thought our sticks might seem a bit tame against that slick operation.

I need not have worried. Our stall was surrounded from the time the zoo opened, until we left just before closing time. We had adults, children, zoo keepers, people from the BTS stall, all comers, wanting to see the sticks, asking questions, wanting to hold one, the children wanting to draw one. It was certainly hectic. Fortunately Lois brought in lots of No1s, and she was swapping them round in shifts to give them a rest.

I must admit, Lois did the lion's share of the stall-holding. She said Tracey and I could have our dinner and walk round the Zoo for while at lunchtime, as it should be quieter then. Well, me and Tracey had something to eat, got lost in the Zoo, got soaking wet in a very long thunderstorm, and found an elephant (see photo of Tracey on the left). When we got back, Lois said she had been run off her feet, poor thing.

Still, we sold some merchandise, got some new members, and

got an invite to return next year. The date is Sunday, 17th August, 2003. The venue Colchester Zoo, Stanway, Colchester, Essex. We will be going again - but would appreciate some assistance, please. If you are interested, please contact me, 01376 584388, my full details are at the back of the Newsletter.

Newsletter 93.13 Keeping Ova HeaIthy

by Reverend Joy Gartside

I keep most ova on a paper towel, but never spray it with water as it will encourage mould; rather, I spray the lid of the container with water, letting the excess run off before shutting the lid. This will keep the container of Ova reasonably humid without too much risk of mould. Also, I wouldn't spray every day, once or twice a week is sufficient - unless it's really hot.

Concerning Extatosoma tiaratum ova (PSG 9), I have just put mine in damp sand. I have no idea if this helps, but I was told to do this by someone who keeps them and who hasn't had any problems so far. Regarding sealing the containers; I don't seal them, I use plant propagators with any holes taped over, but I don't seal the edges as long as the top is flush with the bottom. Just be careful with lifting the container, as you may open it by mistake and Ova will be all over the floor. This happened to me, and I spent ages picking them up.

If you want to increase the humidity for Ova try putting a small container with gravel, into the container, fill with water to the top of the gravel, and if nymphs hatch they are in no danger of drowning. Oh, this is also useful when the nymphs hatch - just push the food plant between the pieces of gravel, and if they fall off the plant they land on the gravel not in the water. Don't worry too much, as they are robust and can fall several meters in the wild. As to what gravel to use, I use aquarium gravel - the kind for fish tanks, not ponds.

As to what food to give them, once they have hatched it depends on the species, but most will eat bramble (as we call it in England; sorry, I don't know what it is called in other countries). Always make sure that, if you buy your plants commercially for your sticks, the plants have not been treated with pesticide. This will kill all your babies. If in doubt, don't feed them it, I would think. Oh, if you collect from the wild, avoid roadsides (because of traffic pollution), and avoid parks and gardens (unless it's your own and you know it hasn't been sprayed), for much the same reason as with commercial growers. Some growers, though, will be organic; but it usually tells you in the adverts in the phone book or you can ring and ask. But I cannot stress the importance of asking about this before you buy.

One final note, most plants (raspberry, bramble, etc), that are meant for human consumption, are not sprayed with pesticide even by commercial growers, as they have to be safe for us to eat the fruit off after all. But once again make sure you ask first.

Here is a link to a plant database which you may find useful: http://plantsdatabase.com/imagesbyuser.php7usersBaa

There are pics of raspberry on it, and also three or four pics of blackberry down near the bottom of the page.

It is these down to earth practicalities that many PSG members find so helpful. Please keep them coming in. Joy has become a good friend of mine through our correspondence via Stick Talk. With (virtually) no arm twisting, Joy gladly offered to supply me with this very topical article for the Newsletter, and an excellent picture for the front page. At the time Joy was in the throes of moving house, and recovering from a fall which injured her hand. Grateful thanks for all your help, Joy. Newsletter 93.14 CLEANING OUT STICKS by Mike Smith

I nervously made my first e-mailed contribution to Stick Talk with a few notes on my method of cleaning out my sticks. (What is Stick Talk? You may well ask - just see the zyxwvutsrqponmlkjihgfedcbaZYXWVUTSRQPONMLKJIHGFEDCBA e article on it in this Newsletter; I think Stick Talk is great!). [I need not have been nervous; the people at Stick Talk were fantastically friendly, and I've made lots of new friends.]

I believe it was in answer to a query from a Stick Talk member on how to clean out sticks without losing them all, and a mention from another Stick Talk member of how long it took them to clean sticks out, that made me decide on this subject. The problem being that by moving sticks to an empty container, so they can be cleaned out, meant moving the sticks twice and they tend to try and escape. There is no rocket science here: however my simple method of cleaning out sticks may be of use to some Newsletter readers. It has worked well for me. Anyway, I've expanded my e-mail to Stick Talk to this article for the Newsletter.

I have a very simple method for cleaning out my sticks. Firstly, to state the obvious, I try to clean them out before dark - they are less lively then. Secondly (and this may be controversial), if weather permits I usually clean them out on the path in my * garden (where there is room enough to work fast), even with my winged varieties - and I've never lost any (so far as I am aware). (But none of mine ever seem to fly; I would not do this with sticks with a particular penchant for flying).

The first thing I do is get a jar and fill it with the appropriate foodstuff (usually bramble and/or ivy) ready to put in the sticks' container. I place the jar on my A garden path. I then collect the container with the sticks in, and place it on the path next to the jar. I remove the container's lid, and place it upside down on the path; any sticks on the lid usually stay there.

I next remove the jar of old foodstuff from the container and put that on the path; any sticks on it also usually stay there. For some sticks (eg Malacomorpha jamaicana, and the Eurycantha varieties, I keep cardboard centres from old kitchen paper-towel rolls at the bottom of the containers, as they like to hide in there during the day. So, at this stage of the cleaning out, I remove any cardboard tubes of sticks and put them on the lid, usually the sticks stay in the roll.

Newsletter 93.15 The sticks that stay on the floor of the container are now picked up and placed on the new foodstuff in the jar on the path. The sticks that are stationary on the side of the container I usually leave there and they generally stay put.

I then pick up the paper from the bottom on the container and put it carefully on the path (to sort out the eggs, frass, dead sticks etc later). I tip up the container to add any remaining dirt, eggs, etc onto the paper, and wipe round the container with a damp paper towel to clean it. (Any sticks on the sides usually still stay there while I do this, and I work round them).

Any wandering sticks, at any stage, (eg that walk off the upside down lid, or the side of the container, etc), I pick up and put on the new food. Usually they stay on the new food but, if not, I let them stray a little way then keep replacing them there (they tend to stand out against the white of my garden path).

I put new paper at the bottom of the container, pick up the jar of new food and put it inside, and put any cardboard tubes back inside. I then pick up the old food and move sticks from here into the cleaned-out container (eg if you hold the old food over the container and touch the sticks, they often fall off onto the new food in the cleaned-out container). Then finally I replace the lid, put the container back into my animal shed, and sort out any eggs from the paper on the path. I do this with each container. The whole thing is done fairly quickly. (However, the weekly clean out and tidy-up still takes me up to 3 hours from going out to / pick some food, to washing my hands when it is all over).

Incidentally, I place the old food into my dustbin (which has a

/ clean bin-bag placed in it). I then lift up the dustbin lid later / that day, and again the next day, to check for any sticks I've missed. In the dark of the dustbin, they invariably wake up and walk to the top where they are easily seen - I may recover 1 or 2 a week this way. (I'll get some new glasses one day).

If the weather is bad (eg windy, rainy, or cold), then I clean them out exactly the same way, but on the floor of my heated animal shed instead of on the garden path, but it's a bit more cramped there. (My wife does not allow me to clean out sticks in the house, since a number escaped once and were found all over the kitchen - but that's another story).

If you have any comments on my method, or have your own way of cleaning out sticks, please send me your comments for the next Newsletter.

Newsletter 93.16 Phasmid/PSG Q« By Cameron Die Konigin

(Answers on Page 30)

Some of these questions are based on articles that appeared in the previous newsletter - hope you have been reading them!

1. What is the address for the PSG website? 2. What is the country of origin for Sungaya inexpectata? 3. What genus do the species grayii, dehanii, muellerii and echinata belong to? 4. Females of several Phasmid species such as Aretaon and Eurycantha have an ovipositor. What is this for? 5. Where on a stick insect would you fine the maxillary palps, maxilla, labial palps and the mandibles? 6. Adult Phyllium species are usually green. What colour are the newly hatched nymphs? 7. What are these food plants commonly known as; Rubus fruticosus Psidium sp. Quercus sp. Ligustrum sp. Rubus idaeus Hedera helix 8. Bacillus rossius is found in what region of Europe? 9. Macleay's spectre and giant prickly stick insect are common names for what species? 10. What member of the PSG committee is the author of the following books, A Complete Guide to Breeding Stick and Leaf Insects, the Amazing World of Stick and Leaf Insects and Stick and Leaf Insects of Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore? 11. Who currently edits the PSG publication, 'Phasmid Studies'? 12. What is the term given to the process where stick insects have the ability to lose a leg through damage or disease and redevelop a new one? 13. Which genus produces the longest Phasmids? 14. Approximately how different species of Phasmids are known? 15. What do the following species all have in common? Sipyloidea sipylus Sungaya inexpectata Carausius morosus Paraphasma rufipes

16. What is the longest species of Phasmid found in Hong Kong? 17. What species of Neohirasea is named after Hong Kong? 18. What colour are adult Cranidium gibbosum? 19. The latin gibbosum means humped and refers to what part of the body in Cranidium gibbosum? 20. In what continent is Cranidium gibbosum found?

Newsletter 93.17 MOW "TRY TWO GREAT WORDSEARCHES By Gwilym Brady zyxwvutsrqponmlkjihgfedcbaZYXWVUTSRQPONMLKJIHGFEDCBA(Answers on Page. 30)

RIGHT-ANGLED WORDSEARCH TWO GENERAL WORDSEARCH ONE , COLLECTORS

R A T Q W E R T Y U 1 0 Y F S H N A A 1 S A W E S T W 0 0 D D S A P H T R 0 P 1 D H H L 0 J H C Z T L K J G H F 1 S 1 N A E 0 A V A 0 G 1 C M A C L E A Y N G S U Z L J D E S M D W G D A G H F H D A J N G G H E T E R 0 P M 0 0 W D B V H G S R Y 1 0 W A T A R A C T A A Y J D G N D C G G G F L E U W 0 1 D L E S S H F S Y M E F J Y D N F N A 1 D N G A R 0 H L G F B T V T E S H D E W A U P A P C Y N K F H F T F V A D F D N A L S N E E U Q X D F G H 1 B R u N N E R C J S R F 1 N 0 S A M R Calcarata Malaysia Brunner Nascetti Heteropteryx New Guinea Gray Redtenbacher Tropidoderinae Papua Macleay Westwood Queensland Indian Wood-Mason Wuelfingi

PHOTO SHOOT By Mike Smith

Jungle Nymph Giant Spiny

Newsletter 93.18 TH^ AES Show by Mike Smith

The AES Show at Kempton Park did not disappoint. There were as many staHs as always, as far as I could see, and certainly the usual hundreds of people there to see them. (There were rumours the show might be smaller than usual this year, but fortunately it was apparently not the case).

In addition to the usual livestock (tarantulas, scorpions, mi lipedes, beetles. butterflies, moths, crabs, mantids, etc, etc), there were stacks of sticks there this year - and very J_. . _—.—— reasonably priced too. Some of the rarer varieties also made a welcome appearance. However, the prices seemed more erratic than ever this year; all good, but some much better than others, so it was particularly well worth shopping around the stalls. (I bought lots of bargains - too many really, it all adds up).

The PSG stand took its usual place upstairs. I looked it over, and saw it was being well looked after. So I took some photos and sneaked away. I do not know much about how they fared, but hopefully the PSG at least covered their costs with voluntary contributions for free sticks, and from merchandise sales. Maybe we got some new members too. Phil Bragg had his own Mantid Study Group stand at the end of the PSG table.

Newsletter 93.19 Paul Brock's Wexham School had their usual table next to the PS& stand. They had made a tree and put stick insects on it made of coloured pipecleaners. It was quite effective.

They also had descriptions of various creatures on some sheets of paper, and you had to guess what the creature was. Then lift up a flap of paper to reveal the answer, and see if you were right. I got some of them right

Paul introduced me to the school's Headteacher, and I invited her to provide some quotes on the day from the children, for inclusion in the Newsletter. Here are two quotes that she very kindly selected for me:

"It was great fun, and I want to thank the Phasmid Study Group for giving me different stick insects for free." Grant Hogan.

"It was brilliant, and the variety of stick insects on display was fantastic. The people were kind and helpful, and can I have a seat on the coach next year?!" Jack Minter.

Thanks for those quotes: seems a great day was had by all.

Newsletter 93.20 How to Draw a Stick Insect

By Joy Gartside

If you liked Joy's picture on the front, and thought it was easy to do, just take a peep at Joy's diary...

9.00am Set up studio and place stick insect in good position, set up easel paper and pencil 10.40am Stick insect disappears down the table leg, get sticky tape and glue 9.10am Chase other sticks back into everything into position cage avoiding the thorns on assorted food plants 10.50am Rebuild set, retrieve stick insect from corner of ceiling, bandage bloodied 9.15am Retrieve stick insect from the finger from the splintered door frame wall, sit down and pick up pencil 11.15am Sit stick in right place, threaten 9.30am Wait for stick insect to stop if any movement then dire consequences waving legs around, put pencil to paper Sit down and compose yourself for final 9.50am Still waiting for the stick insect to last effort to draw the perfect composition settle down, consider making coffee and of the stick insect sandwiches 11.45am Stick falls to the bottom of the 10.10am See stick insect climbing the cage and plays dead wall again, shrug and go make the coffee 12.00pm Sigh give up attempt at artistic 10.20am Retrieve stick insect from the arrangement and draw stick as it sits on ceiling avoiding the spider, make mental floor. note must remove those cobwebs soon!!!!

IN/I & Winter Meeting

January 18th; Saturday, 11.30 am Spencer Gallery, Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, London, SW7. [Note the change of room, re refurbishment].

A great meeting is planned for January 18th. If at all possible, please be there; we would very much like to see you. There will be the ever popular Livestock Exchange, another excellent talk, and your chance to meet, see and hear from Committee Members. You can help decide who will form the next committee, vote on important PSG Matters, and have a chat with other PSG members. If you have any spare time afterwards, you can look around the Natural History and Science Museums for free - what a great day out! See agenda and entry sheet at back of this Newsletter.

If any member of the Phasmid Study Group wishes to stand for Office, or stand on the Committee, will he or she please write to the Chairman, Judith Marshall, to reach her by Monday 7th January 2003 at the latest: FAO Judith Marshall, Department of Entomology, The Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, London, SW7 5BD. Tel: 020 7942 5610; FAX 020 7942 5229. E-mail: [email protected].

Newsletter 93.21 Phasmicl Collectables

By Paul D.Brock Introduction

Having previously written about phasmid postcards (Newsletter No. 83, 2000), I thought that members may be interested in reading about various collectable items other than books / scientific papers. Most are recent, so you will not find them on 'Antiques Roadshow'! Fellow PSG members have kindly given some of the items to me. If you want to start collecting, note that some, but not all, are readily available. Whilst there are not so many items as with other insects, there are more than you might think. The following is a selection of what you can expect:

Cards

The attractive leaf insect Phyllium giganteum (fig.l) is featured, or what about a Disney 'A Bug's Life' Birthday card (fig.2). Be creative with home made cards - such as Wexham Court Primary School, Slough's Valentines Card (fig. 3) sent to guess who [and I still do not know exactly who sent it!!], and a thank you card (fig. 4).

I have seen an expensive Phyllium giganteum watercolour for sale in Malaysia, but have only been tempted by a limited edition Carausius morosus by Richard Lewington (fig.5) and Extatosoma tiaratum drawn by Tony James and made by Wendron Forge, Cornwall (fig.6). Prints of phasmids can also sometimes be obtained, try in shops selling antiquarian prints. For example, I obtained a huge print on Australian Orthoptera (1840s) from an Oxford shop. I also look out for prints of naturalists who describe phasmids, or major museums associated with phasmids (fig.7 - Vienna Natural History Museum). Stamps

Not always easy to obtain, there are a few phasmids on stamps (examples, figs.8-10).

11 IT!

fmmmm Hmckmmi msccm Fig 10

Before the first PSG t-shirts appeared, a Pharnacia sp. appeared on 'Run with a Walkingstick' from the San Francisco Zoo. Members should know all about the PSG's range of t-shirts, but what about Phyllium giganteum from Wings n' things, USA (check Website).

Toys

There appear to be few items available, but these are worth seeking out to place on one's desk. How about Megaphasma dentricus (Fig. 11), one green, one brown (Bugs World Series 'Museum quality replicas' by Imperial Toy Corporation, Los Angeles 1997). 'A Bug's Life' toys also includes the stick insect featured in the film [more likely a proscopiid!]. As for leaf insects, in 1997 Safari Ltd, Miami brought out an attractive replica of a female Phyllium giganteum. Fig 11 Other items

Search well and you may find posters, including Phyllium caudatum - a Rain Forest Village poster, USA. Figure 12 shows a mug, which used to be sold by the Natural History Museum, London, featuring Heteropteryx dilatata, along with a small pewter dish from Malaysia (Phyllium giganteum) and a phasmid key ring. A mug with a Phyllium giganteum [yes, that species again!] design may be obtained from Wings n' things, USA. A small Carausius morosus cigar wrapper

Newsletter 93.23 (fig. 13) is an unusual item, and you will also find phasmids featured in fiction, such as in the colourful Dutch / Belgian magazine Jerom from 1976 (fig. 14). Advertisers also appear to like phasmids, a classic non-nature example from Belgium is shown in figure 15, starring Heteropteryx diiatata. Attractive phasmid bookmarks are supplied with Yamai Huang's book on phasmids of Taiwan, published in 2002.

Finally, a female Phyllium bioculatum features on a slightly less than life-size 1998 toy called 'Stick Insect' which is readily available in Germany at present (and probably elsewhere), and there is also the PSG's own car sticker: David Rentz (Australia) reports "It attracts a lot of comment".

Do you know about any other interesting collectables? How about an article for the PSG Newsletter?

NEW BOOK Yamai Huang's book on the Taiwan fauna has now been published. Paul Brock has sent in a summary from the list of in-print books he supplies to new PSG members. Paul recommends that keen enthusiasts obtain this book. Huang, Y.S. 2002. Phasmids in Taiwan. Bigtree Culture Enterprise Co. Ltd., Taiwan. Price US$13.00 (ISBN 957-8792-64-6). Impressive colour guide in Chinese. Good coverage of species, including photographs of foodplants and habitats. A large introductory section covers rearing and studying phasmids. Supplied with two beautiful phasmid bookmarks. 142 pages, paperback, A5.

Newsletter 93.24 STICK INSECTS IN THE CHITTAQONQ HILL TRACTS (BANGLADESH): THEIR LOCAL NAMES AND A LEGEND ABOUT THEM

By Nicolas Cliquennois

Ninety-nine percent of Bangladesh is populated by Bengalis, the remaining population consists of tribes with a Tibeto-Burmese origin. They constitute eighteen ethnics groups of which thirteen inhabit the Chittagong Hill Tracts, in the South-East region of the country at the border with Mizoram (India) and Burma.

They are a little entomophagous as they are very keen on a big cricket that lives in a hole and makes a deafening noise at night. And they seem to be closer to insects than their neighbouring Bengalis, as I have never found a Bengali really knowing about stick insects, and able to give me their name in their language.

All tribal people I questioned about them knew about their existence but only some about their habits. They gave me the name in their languages and one person told me about a legend.

Mru (or Murong) people call them "pakmaraitua" which simply means "stick insect". Khumi people call them "kinicheuwai" which means "stick of the sky". Bawm people call them "pathian pa sirshawh" where "pathian pa" means V has no particular meaning.

I got two different names for the Marma people: some people gave me the name "medikha" which means "long insect"; another man told me their name was "wenekha" (or "oaynakha") which is also the name of an unidentified tree.

The man explained that according to the beliefs of Marma people, that tree gives birth to stick insects and that is why they share the same name with it.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

PHOTO SHOOT ENCORE

Phyllium celebicum female Photo by Ron Baxter

This is from Ron's book "Rearing Stick & Leaf Insects".

Please send in YOUR photos!

Newsletter 93.25 New additions to the culture list by Phil Bragg.

I have added a few more species to the culture list (see below). I have very limited information about several of these. If anyone can add to the information, please let me know. I am aware of several other species which are being cultured but am not adding them until I have specimens to check against those already on the PSG list In the past there have been several instances of new cultures being allocated numbers and later being found to be the same as one already on the list (e.g. PSG 24, 56, 64, 75, 78, 91, and 119). Only a few months ago I was given eggs of a zyxwvutsrqponmlkjihgfedcbaZYXWVUTSRQPONMLKJIHGFEDCBA Sipyloidea from West Malaysia with the suggestion that I put it on the list; when I reared adults and checked, I found it is the same species as PSG 103 from Thailand. Eiitoria victoria is apparently in culture but I have not seen any specimens yet; the same applies to a fern-feeder from Jamaica.

I am happy to report that PSG 27, Carausius chaniIs back in culture. Mark Bushell and I each found one female on our visit to Sabah in the summer of 2001. My female collected at Tawai Forest Reserve on 10.viii.2001 survived several months back in the UK and laid over 300 eggs; a number of people now have established cultures. The same trip also established Dinophasma kinabaluensis. see below.

The new additions to the list are as follows:

PSG 234. XyLca oedematosaKarsch, 1898 From Tanzania. Both sexes are green. Females 65mm, males 45mm. Eats bramble, hawthorn, raspberry, hypericum, hazel, rose, oak. The origin of the culture is unclean Jeroen de Heer tells me that it is believed to be from the Usambara River area in Tanzania, and possibly collected by a German. Jeroen identified the culture, but he is not certain because there are problems due to the very brief nature of the descriptions of the species: he narrowed it down to three similar species which are described from this general area: X. oedematosa, X abbreviata and X. caligulatac, the latter two are a problem because they were described so briefly by Redtenbacher. Eggs are small and hatch into bright green nymphs after about four months. Jeroen suggests they should in an airy cage and not sprayed very much. However, I kept one of my adult females in a very humid, unventilated cage: she survived in these conditions for months, although she was covered in mildew throughout this time!

PSG 235. \Euobrimus or Brasidas ?] Collected by Andy Maluche from Bobon, northern Samar, Philippines. Feeds on bramble, hawthorn, raspberry, hazel. Females greenish, 115mm; males brown, 60mm. Two names have been suggested as possibilities: Euobrimus atherura Rehn & Rehn, 1938 and Brasidas samarensis Rehn & Rehn, 1938. I have not attempted to identify this species. Oliver Zompro is working on the Philippine Obrimini and has told me the distinction between the two genera is doubtful.

Newsletter 93.26 PSG 236. zyxwvutsrqponmlkjihgfedcbaZYXWVUTSRQPONMLKJIHGFEDCBADimorphodes sp. From New Guinea. Eats bramble, hawthorn. Females 65mm, males 45mm. It is being passed around as Dimorphodes mancus" but this is clearly wrong, mancus has a spiny thorax, this culture does not I do not know who identified the culture. Redtenbacher (1908) recorded mancus from many Indonesian islands but not from New Guinea; Giinther (1934) synonymised mancus with a lot of others which were described from New Guinea. However, many of Gunther's synonyms in Phasmida are now recognised as erroneous and I have little doubt this will prove to be the case with this species. Beyond a quick look at Bates' illustration, I have not made any attempt to identify this species. I am told they were collected by Heinz van Herwaarden.

PSG 237. Pseudosermyle sp. From Belize. Eats bramble, hawthorn. Males brown, 55mm; females green, 75mm. Lays many small eggs, a very easy species to keep. It has been passed around the group as "Geroys sp.". This is obviously wrong since the culture belongs in the suborder Anareolatae, whereas Geroys are Areolatae. The culture has been identified by Oliver Zompro as Pseudosermyle sp. This culture was collected by Tony James and his wife.

PSG 238. Dinophasma kinabaluensis Bragg, 2002 Collected at Kinabalu National Park by Phil Bragg and Mark Bushell in August 2001, it is very common in some places; we found over 40 specimens along one path one evening. It is easy to rear on bramble, hawthorn, raspberry, fuchsia. Females 40mm, males 35mm. Seems to do best at high humidity. Other members of this genus have proved difficult unless fed on fuchsia; however, to my great surprise, a week after my return to the UK they fed on raspberry when I put a leaf in the cage for them because they had eaten the one tiny piece of fuchsia and it was too late to get more from the garden centre. Since then they have not had fuchsia and until a week ago I had the third generation feeding on bramble, hawthorn, hypericum, raspberry. My adults all died when I allowed the cage to dry out too much because I was worried about the pool of water in the bottom. This is the second time I have killed adults of this species in this way; they need to be humid and pools of water at the bottom of the cage do not seem to do any harm, but do make sorting the eggs difficult'

PSG 239. Olinta sp. From Costa Rica. Feeds on violets and the adults will also feed on Hypericum and bramble. Both sexes are brown or greenish-brown and winged; males 50mm, females 75mm. Both sexes are fully winged. The culture was collected by Tony James and his wife.

PSG 240. Lamponius portoricensisRehn, 1903 There are two completely different cultures circulating with this name. When I checked them I found one is PSG 101, Lamponius guerini. The other is the new culture which was obtained from a dealer by Cameron Diekonigin. Female 95mm, male 85mm. It feeds on bramble and hypericum.

PSG 241. Carausius spinosus Brunner, 1907 I don't know the origin of the culture, the species occurs in West Malaysia and Thailand. It is a large species, mainly brown in colour, females 150mm, males 85mm. It feeds on bramble, hypericum, and oak. Several people in continental Europe have had this in culture fpr several generations.

Newsletter 93.27 RtlSLS m id \ SiriJS. PzyxwvutsrqponmlkjihgfedcbaZYXWVUTSRQPONMLKJIHGFEDCBA by Na.t3.liGzyxwvutsrqponmlkjihgfedcbaZYXWVUTSRQPONMLKJIHGFEDCBA Ford

This is in response to the article called "Stick Insect Parasites" written by Jamie Dockery in the September newsletter.

Background To recap, Jamie's article talked about some problems he experienced trying to breed Extatosoma tiaratum, specifically that he had noticed the insect's frass contained foreign material - possibly related to parasites. Jamie suggested that these unusual droppings may be the cause of a decline in health of his insects.

I breed a variety of species, many of which require medium or high humidity, and so to reduce the number of cages I have I keep species requiring similar conditions in the same cages. About a month ago, I noticed that the frass from one cage in particular was rather sticky and if you were to pick it up, it would stick to your fingers leaving a sort-of mucus behind. On close inspection, the frass contained small spherical "dots", white in colour and sticky/mucusy to touch. I did think it was a little strange, but I put the stickiness down to an effect of the humidity of the cage.

However, when i read Jamie's article, which described exactly the same sticky frass my phasmids are producing, it occurred to me that this is quite possibly something I should be concerned about. Hence the reason for this article - via this newsletter, I would like to ask the advice of anyone who is experienced in the field of phasmids, insects, viruses, parasites or similar to help identify and resolve this problem.

My Set- up The species I currently keep in the cage producing this sticky frass are Extatosoma tiaratum, Sungaya inexpectata and Lamponius guerini. They are fed on a mixture of eucalyptus, oak and bramble and the cage is sprayed lightly with water every 2-3 days. I have no way of measuring the humidity, however, the cage is almost completely enclosed and so I would class the level of humidity as "high". The floor of the cage is lined only with kitchen roll. In order for the Sungayaslo lay their ova, a pot of vermiculite is also kept in the cage.

It may be worth noting, because of the design of the above cage, the humidity is slightly higher in this cage than my other high-humidity cages (the above cage is more enclosed). I have not (yet) noticed the sticky frass in any of my other cages - high or low humidity. Although the above cage is the only cage in which I keep Sungaya inexpectata and Lamponius guerini, Extatosoma tiaratum ar kept in atleast two other cages.

The Frass The frass is no different in colour or size to normal frass. The only difference is that it contains small, white, spherical "dots" that appear to make the frass sticky. The "dots" will stick to anything they come into contact with. Not all the frass from this cage contains these dots - from my

Newsletter 93.28 observations, it appears only to be the frass from thezyxwvutsrqponmlkjihgfedcbaZYXWVUTSRQPONMLKJIHGFEDCBA Lamponius guerin> r'zyxwvutsrqponmlkjihgfedcbaZYXWVUTSRQPONMLKJIHGFEDCBAinsects that are affected. It is, however, quite possible that it is also coming from the other species.

Sick Sticks Out of the three species I keep in this cage, I have only noticed a decline in health of the Extats - and oddly enough, only the female Extats. I have no evidence that the sticky frass is related to my sick phasmids, but that is one question I pose to you, the readers.

The symptoms of my sick ET females is as follows:

Generally speaking, they are weak and they allow their bodies to "flop", often resting their abdomens on the bottom of the cage. However, I would not describe them as lethargic because, if disturbed, they will quickly pick themselves up and be as alert as any healthy stick. In addition, they continue to move around the cage without problem.

The "shell" of the insects is weak and very flexible - it will readily bend in ways that it should not. I have, on more than one occasion, seen the females' head bent backwards onto her thorax because the upper thorax has given way. If I am quick enough to correct this situation, the female appears unharmed and continues about her business.

The weakness of the "shell" is also noticeable on the lower abdomen as this too folds easily.

In the worse case, the female dies. She will gradually become weaker over 2 or 3 days, seeming very lethargic and her thorax appears to "deflate". The deceased body is very floppy and distinctly lacking in shape (due to the deflated thorax).

One observation 1 have made is that a possible key to their survival or decline, is eating. In the early stages of this illness, although the female may not appear too unwell, she often seems uninterested in food, if she can be persuaded to eat, the female will often gain enough strength to be "well" for a day or two. It is when the female refuses to eat that she inevitably dies.

Conclusion Well, I would like to leave this up to you, the readers. I would like to pose you all some questions - which I really hope you will help me to find answers to.

What are those sticky little spheres in the frass and are they harmful? What could be causing them? Is the frass related to the sick female ETs? Why does the ET illness effect only the females? What can I do to cure my sick phasmids? Please offer me any other advice you feel relevant!

I would be more than grateful to receive any information you can offer. You can submit your comments either directly to me (email [email protected]) or I would be most interested to read about this topic in the next newsletter. Contact Mike in order to submit your responses to the next newsletter.

Newsletter 93.29 Quiz 2 - Answers. 1. www.stickinsect.org.uk 2. Phillipines 3. Haniella 4. Laying eggs, normally into soil 5. The mouth, they are various different mouthparts 6. Red-brown 7. Rubus fruticosus - blackberry Quercus sp. - oak Ligustrum sp. - privet Psidium sp. - guava Rubus idaeus - raspberry Hedera helix - ivy 8. Mediterranean 9. Extatasoma tiaratum 10. Paul D. Brock 11. Phil Bragg 12. Autotomy 13. Phobaeticus 14. 2500 species 15. In culture they are all females and therefore reproduce through parthenogensis 16. Entoria victoria 17. Neohirasea hongkongensis 18. Bright green 19. Thorax 20. South America

WORDSEARCH ONE, ANSWERS RIGHT-ANGLED WORDSEARCH TWO ANSWERS w E S T W O O D A I S A 0 H T R O P I D L 0 C M A C L E A Y N I I N A E O A D A A G U D M B S R M N G H E T E R O P A N C G I W A T A R A C T S E F L E U W I L E O T T I D N A R N T D N A Y I B R U N N E R D A U P A P C N A L S N E E U Q X

Newsletter 93.30 By IV/Iike Smith

If you take a look at our PSG web page (www.stickinseck.org.uk), under "LINKS", you will see "STICK TALK". "What is this?" you may well ask.

Well, let me tell you - I think it is the next best thing to joining the PSG! But let me explain. Stick Talk is an exciting, e-mail mailing list for stick buffs. It is totally independent of the PSG, but many PSG members are on the Stick Talk list. Including yours truly, and quite a few well known PSG names. Some Stick Talk members have joined the PSG where they were not previously members, and some have contributed to the great articles and pictures in this Newsletter. So, obviously stay with the PSG - but you can join Stick Talk too!

Stick Talk is run by Ursula, who lives in the USA, assisted by Natalie in England (both are PSG members). If you want to join Stick Talk, you must of course have access to e-mail, then all you have to do is:

1) Goto: http://dreamwater.net/nutcase/sticklist/ and sign on, OR

2) Go to the PSG site: www.stickinsect.org.uk and use the link to Stick Talk, OR

3) Just send an e-mail to Ursula at: [email protected].

Give it a try, you have nothing to lose - it's totally free of charge: and if you do not like it, just e-mail Ursula and ask to be taken off the list.

As a Stick Talk list member, you could receive an average of around 3 to 4 e-mails a day, but all quite short. Generally, it is about a lot of people who are interested in sticks, giving details of their sticks, seeking and exchanging sticks, asking and answering questions on sticks, and sometimes going slightly off on a tangent. At the time of writing, there are around 70 members, with the number rising by 1 every few days. Ursula would like to widen the area of interest, and expand the stick knowledge within the list, by getting many more new members. It would therefore be a bonus if some new members were from the PSG. Current members range from novices to experts, youngsters to seniors, and come from many different countries - but mainly Britain, Europe, and USA.

Although all the list members like Stick Talk, and I can certainly recommend it, I appreciate that it may not be everyone's cup of tea. But if you, or even a non-PSG friend, are even just slightly interested then, as I said, go on and give it a try!

Newsletter 93.31 Do not forget that your spare ova (eggs) should be sent to our Livestock Co-ordinator, Jan Fletcher. Also, any requests for ova, etc may go to Jan too:

125 Malvern Drive, North Common, Warmley, Bristol, BS30 8UY. Tel: 01179 604917, e-mail: [email protected].

WANTED: Does anybody have surplus of the following; PSG 208 Pharnacia sp. from Vietnam, PSG 214 Applopus jamaicana, PSG 233 Neopromachus doryanus, PSG 193 Tropidoderous childrenii, PSG 9 Extatosoma tiaratum, PSG 21 Extatosoma popa, PSG? Extatosoma bufonium. Gwilym Brady, [email protected], 32, Moncrieff Crescent, Chaddesden, Derby, DE21 4NQ.

WANTED: Rhaphidervs scabrosus - I have some from Derek Pattenson, however, I am looking for some from a different source so that they can "out-breed". Any stage of development welcome. Natalie. Please email me at [email protected].

AVAILABLE: I have a small number of Sungaya adults and nymphs available if anyone would like some. If you are interested please could you send me the cost of the postage, £1.50, along with your name and address, although if you could e-mail or telephone me first to reserve, it would be appreciated. I will send them only to UK addresses. Cameron Die Konigin, E-mail - [email protected]. 8 Frampton Court, Trowbridge, Wiltshire, BA14 9HL Tel. 01225 355 855.

WANTED: PSG 222 Sipyloidea sp. -1 have some from Kritien Rabaey, however, I am looking for some from a different source so that they can "out-breed". Any stage of development welcome. Natalie. Please email me at [email protected].

STICK INSECTS FOR EXCHANGE: I have some PSG23 Eurycantha calcarata, PSG183 Sceptrophasma hispidula, and PSG144 Baculum sp, [presumably eggs] all freshly laid by my females. I would like to exchange with anyone who has PSG 164 Parapachymorpha quadrispinosa or any Phyllium species as eggs or nymphs. If interested please send me 2 first class stamps, a container for the eggs, and a jiffy bag. Rachael Marriott, 1 Ashridge Way, Edwalton, Nottingham, NG12 4FL.

OUR LIVESTOCK COORDINATOR, Jan Fletcher, advises that she has a surplus of the following ova(eggs): PSG Nos 4, 5,'9, 13, 19, 23, 29r 73^82, 104, 118," 138, 163, 169," 173, 181/183, 195, 202, 211, 213, 215, 219, 220, 224, 227, 228, 230, Eurycnema osiris, Neohiras&a hongkongensis, Baculum magnum, Baculum cuniculus, Carausius spinosis, Lamponius portcorensis..

The following ova are wanted: PSG Nos. 2, 3, 10, 15, 18, 21, 26, 28, 30, 31, 35, 45, 69, 70, 80, 81, 107, 108, 110, 111, 117, 125, 130, 137, 172, 175, 177, 180, 193, 197, 199, 208, &231.

Jan also advises that members should not send nymphs to her without first contacting her, so appropriate arrangements can be made for their arrival Ova, however, may be sent anytime. Jan's contact details are at the top of this page. xxxxxxxxxx

Newsletter 93.32 SPECIAL REQUEST BY JANINE FLETCHER, PSG LIVESTOCK CO-ORDINATOR

"LIVESTOCK REQUIRED, PLEASE!"

Jan says please can members send her any surplus ova they can spare, as she receives very little except from a few reliable people. You may contact her first, if you like, to check what is needed.

I have noticed that more and more livestock (PSG or otherwise) is being exchanged between members via the Internet, on our PSG Website, etc. Sometimes with almost desperate pleas for someone to relieve them of a particular species which is over-running their house! Or with equally desperate pleas for anyone to supply them with particular ova or nymphs. (Also, sometimes the "Post and Packing" charged can be well above the actual cost of postage.)

Please remember that we do have our own Livestock Co-ordinator, Janine Fletcher (contact details are on the previous page), who would welcome more livestock to distribute, and would be willing to assist in helping to find a particular species. (And usually only the postage costs are asked for.) Many thanks - Editor.

OOKS ON STICKS By Mike Smith

From our PSG Website, Stick Talk, and queries I receive, it is clear that stick keepers, especially those new to it, are often keen to get information on selecting, keeping, and identifying sticks.

There is always the library; stacks Your First of books to be looked at and STICK INSECT borrowed for free, with lots of great advice. But better still, you can have your very own books on the subject, many in colour, for immediate reference whenever you want them. However, because of the low numbers published, books on sticks are not usually cheap. But there are exceptions.

David Alderton's book "Your First Stick Insect" has over 30 excellent zyxwvutsrqponmlkjihgfedcbaZYXWVUTSRQPONMLKJIHGFEDCBAere Guide to Breeds

*!• £OV \ Hlf&A H Pa9es> a" 'n colour, at a publisher's Stick and Leaf insects f '*"Jf Sk^0 \ price of only £1.75! Paul Brock's JF^.JH&SH^ -** book "Stick and Leaf Insects" is in hard back with over 60 colourful David Alderton pages covering all aspects of stick keeping; publisher's price is only £12.95. Then at just over £20, there is Ron Baxter's new book "Rearing Stick and Leaf Insects", which has over 100 pages with colour photos throughout, and it is particularly useful for identifying sticks and their ova. And if you are a real fanatic, Phil Bragg can offer you specialist stick books at various prices but some for nearly £100 each.

All these, and other books, should be available at the PSG AGM and Winter Meeting, Saturday, 18th January. At special cheaper prices for PSG members, on a first come first served basis. Why not ask for a signed copy?

Newsletter 93.33

THE PSG COMMITTEE!

CHAIRMAN Judith Marshall To arrange meetings within the NHM. Dept. of Entomology, The Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, London SW7 5BD. (Tel: 020 7942 5610; FAX 020 7942 5229) E-mail: [email protected].

TREASURER/MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY Paul Brock To receive membership applications and renewals, and keep track of PSG finances. "Papillon", 40 Thorndike Road, Slough, Berks. SL21SR. (Tel: 01753 579447 Phone after 5pm) E-mail: Not currently available on e-mail

PSG NEWSLETTER EDITOR Mike Smith To edit general articles for the PSG Newsletter. 13 Runnacles Street, Silver End, Witham, Essex, CM8 3QN. (Tel: 01376 584388). E-mail [email protected].

PHASMID STUDIES EDITOR Phil Bragg To edit the more technical/scientific articles for Phasmid Studies. 8 The Lane, Awsworth, Nottinghamshire, NG16 2QP. (Tel: 0115 9305010). E-mail: Not currently available on e-mail

LIBRARIAN David Robinson To keep all relevant information for general reference.

EXHIBITION & MEETINGS OFFICER Paul Jennings To assist the PSG in having a presence at relevant exhibitions and meetings. 89 Brackensdale Avenue, Derby, DE22 4AF. Tel: 01332 343477.

LIVESTOCK COORDINATOR Janine Fletcher To coordinate between those with surplus livestock and those wanting species. 125 Malvern Drive, North Common, Warmley, Bristol, BS30 8UY. Tel: 01179 604917, E- mail: [email protected].

COMMITTEE MEMBERS Paul Taylor (Former PSG Newsletter editor and current PSG Website Master) zyxwvutsrqponmlkjihgfedcbaZYXWVUTSRQPONMLKJIHGFEDCBA E-mail [email protected] lan Abercrombie (Former Livestock Co-Ordinator) KimD'Hulster

Non-committee Member: James Waddicor (Holder & seller of PSG merchandise) 3 Squires Copse, Peatmoor, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN5 5HB. Tel 01793 877617.

Newsletter 93.35 NEXT NEWSLETTER

Please send all contributions to the Editor (anytime, but by 1 February to guarantee a place in the March PSG Newsletter):-

Mike Smith, 13 Runnacles Street, Silver End, Witham, Essex, CM8 3QN. Tel: 01376 584388. e-mail: [email protected]. a. On disk* b. By e-mail c. Typed d. Handwritten

*MS Word (any version) preferred. On IBM compatible computer disk providing it is sent on a 3.5" double or high density disk. Files can be accepted as Dos Text, Microsoft Word for Windows, Word Perfect, or as ASC11 files.

All contributions to the Newsletter will be deemed to be submitted to the PSG Website (and vice versa), the Belgian-Dutch Phasma, and the German Arthropoda for translation. (Unless the contributor specifically requests differently).

NOTICE

It is to be directly understood that all views, opinions or theories, expressed in the pages of "The Newsletter" are those of the author(s) concerned. All announcements of meetings, requests for help or information, are accepted as bona fide. Neither the Editor, nor Officers of "The Phasmid Study Group", can be held responsible for any loss, embarrassment or injury that might be sustained by reliance thereon.

Newsletter 93.36 - MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL —

The Phasmid Study Group

Your subscription for 2003 is due for renewal on the 1 January 2003. I hope that you will wish to continue your membership with The Phasmid Study Group. (We are unable to give you any further reminders). Subscription rates for 2003, which are the same as for last year, are:

United Kingdom £7.00 Europe £9.00 Overseas £10.00

Please return this form to the Membership Secretary, together with your payment. Payments can be made by Cheque, Postal Order, International Postal Giro, or a cheque in £ sterling drawn against a London Bank. Cheques, etc, should be made payable to "The Phasmid Study Group". PLEASE NOTE, unfortunately, we are now unable to accept Eurocheques. UK members only, may also pay by Standing Order, please send SAE to the Membership Secretary for a form.

Cash may be sent in your own currency, but remember to add a small margin for exchange rate variations. There is a small risk that bank notes may get lost in the post so, if you send bank notes, this is at your own risk. It is recommended that you send cash by registered post.

Membership Secretary & Treasurer:

Paul Brock. "Papillon", 40 Thorndike Road, Slough, Berks. SL2 1SR. (Tel: 01753 579447)

Membership Renewal - 2003

PSG No: Name:

Address:

Post Code: Country:

E-mail:

Subscription: £

Donation (optional): £

Total Enclosed: £

Newsletter 93.37 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Saturday, 18th JANUARY 2003 SPENCER GALLERY, NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM, CROMWELL ROAD, LONDON. [Note the change of room, re refurbishment]. THE NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM (FREE PUBLIC ENTRY NOW), AGENDA 11.30am - 32.30pm. INFORMAL GATHERING: Members are encouraged to exchange ideas & experiences. 12.30pm - 1.15pm. ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING: 1) Chairman's Report (Judith Marshall). 2) Treasurers/Membership Secretary's Report (Paul Brock). 3) PSG Newsletter Editor's Report (Mike Smith). 4) Phasmid Studies Editor's Report (Phil Bragg). 5) Librarian's Report (David Robinson). 6) Exhibition & Meeting Officer's Report (Paul Jennings) 7) Livestock Co-Ordinator's Report (Janine Fletcher). 8) Election of Officers & Committee. 9) Date & Venue of next meeting. 10) Any other business. If any member of the Phasmid Study Group wishes to stand for Office, or stand on the Committee, will he or she please write to the Chairman, Judith Marshall, to reach her by Monday 7th January 2003 at the latest. 1.15pm- 1.45pm. LUNCH. 1 45pm - 2.00pm SLIDE SHOW OF HONG KONG STICK INSECTS by PAUL BROCK 2.00pm - 3 00pm LIVESTOCK EXCHANGE. 3.00pm - 3.45pm ILLUSTRATED TALK ON NAMIBIAN PHASMIDS by PHIL BRAGG 3.45pm - 5.00pm. FURTHER INFORMAL GATHERING. You are requested to bring along this sheet with you to gain access to the meeting room. Please bring along food for both yourself and any livestock you may exchange. You are reminded to follow the rules as laid down concerning Livestock Exchange: 1) Livestock should be clearly labelled with their name & PSG number. 2) Food plant; what are they being fed on? 3) YOUR NAME & PSG number. And please don't forget to check before you leave that all of your livestock has been distributed.

Newsletter 93.39