David Element

Wildlife Photography

and Digital Video Images

___________ Phasmids 1 - Stick Insects 1

                                                  STICK INSECT Clonopsis gallica (f)

                                                   STICK INSECT Clonopsis gallica (f)

• Phasmids are rather poorly represented in Europe. However, there are several species and this expertly camouflaged female Stick Insect Clonopsis gallica was found in Brittany, France. This species reproduces parthenogenetically (i.e. the eggs are able to hatch without any need for fertilization) in common with many other phasmids and males are said to be very rare. This form of reproduction essentially gives rise a clone of offspring which are genetically identical to the parent. This approach rather flies in the face of most models of evolution as it would appear to undermine the capability of the species to adapt quickly to changed environmental circumstances, as indeed would the loss of the capability of flight. Nevertheless these strategies clearly works for these insects!

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