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Probably the most noteworthy characteristic of this species is its ability to spray a corrosive liquid that is reputed to cause temporary blindness. The liquid is literally sprayed from glands in the thorax region of the Phasmid's back. It's main constituent is terpene (AKA isoprenoid which is very similar to what excites cats to catnip). 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 his dead corpse around! The female in the pair pictured below was not an adult at the time of this picture, yet she was already continuously joined with the male. Males have 2 small extensions on the ends of their abdomens called cerci. In some insect species, they aid in holding onto the females. If the female is not yet mature, she will molt with the male still attached to her. Foodplants: bramble, Hypericum, oak, rhododendron
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