Meaning: phasm = phantom

Pronunciation: phas-MI-da

Common name(s): walking sticks

Mouthparts: chewing

Wings: forewing very narrow and tough (=tegmina); hindwing membrane-like & folded; N. American species lack wings

Metamorphosis: paurometabolous

Body characteristics:

very thin body with long legs & antennae
special behavior for camouflage including hormonal control over body color

Where found: hiding in vegetation

Economic impact: none - insignificant herbivores

Size of order:

• Gordon's Entomological Homepage
• University of Arizona Tree of Life Page (Very Interesting Site!)