Anisomorpha buprestoides (PSG 12)

   Probably the most noteworthy characteristic of this species is its ability to spray an acidic compound which is reputed to cause temporary blindness.  The acid is literally sprayed from glands in the thorax region of the Phasmid's back.  They are sometimes called the "Two-stripe" because of the two stripes running the length of their bodies.  This species is one of the more colorful US Phasmids as it gets older.  It is found in the Southeastern United States.  At maturity, males will remain attached to the females, not letting go even if it means the female has to drag him.  The female in the pair pictured below was not an adult at the time of this picture, yet she was already consistently joined with the male.  The males have 2 small extensions on the ends of their abdomens called cerci, by which they hold onto the females.  The female will molt with the male still attached to her.

Foodplants: bramble, Hypericum, oak, rhododendron