Rediscovery of the ‘extinct’ Lord Howe Island stick-insect ( Dryococelus australis (Montrouzier)) (Phasmatodea) and recommendations for its conservation

摘要: The Lord Howe Island Stick-insect (Dryococelus australis) was formerly abundant on Island, Australia, but extirpated by Black Rats (Rattus rattus) in the 1920s. species thought to be extinct, until freshly dead remains were found climbers Balls Pyramid during 1960s. In February 2001, a survey of led discovery small population D. australis precipitous terrace 65 m above sea level. Two adults and one nymph (all females) located feeding an endemic tea-tree (Melaleuca howeana). An accumulation plant debris at base shrub, kept moist water seepage, provided insects with damp hollows suitable for use as daytime refugia. All evidence indicated that confined this single terrace. A second survey, March 2002, total 24 australis. Twelve individuals same shrub occupied previous year, 12 dispersed among five nearby, smaller shrubs. Ten able sexed – eight females two males. number threats are identified several management actions proposed ensure conservation species.