CARL MARSHALL: A fine example of convergent evolution

This is Pseudoproscopia latirostris also commonly known as a stick grasshopper or more specifically a horsehead grasshopper. 

There are more than 130 species of stick grasshopper which belong to the taxonomic family Proscopiidae.

At first glance these grasshoppers look very much like stick insects (Phasmatodea) however their large orthopterian hind legs enable them to jump, albeit not particularly far.

Much like stick insects, stick grasshoppers spend most of their time swaying side-to-side on leaves in an attempt to mimic twigs and sticks moving in the wind, thus avoiding predators.

This species in particular has become popular among enthusiasts as it is easy to breed and feeds readily on bramble, much like many phasmid species.

We have bred these bizarre little hoppers many times and even though this is not all that difficult I personally think they're fantastic and a fine example of parallel evolution, and for anybody passionate about hoppers or phasmids they are a must have for any collection.