InsectNet forum

My leaf insect is refusing to eat and its been over a week now. I've asked on other websites but I'm getting no help. She's only a nymph and she's displaying some signs of moulting but I'm getting worried that she's maybe just starving herself instead. Any help would be greatly appreciated

Treg wrote: ↑Fri Feb 16, 2024 10:45 pm My leaf insect is refusing to eat and its been over a week now. I've asked on other websites but I'm getting no help. She's only a nymph and she's displaying some signs of moulting but I'm getting worried that she's maybe just starving herself instead. Any help would be greatly appreciated

You might try cutting the edges of the host plant's leaves with scissors. I've heard that this can often help to encourage phasmid nymphs to feed, especially Phyllium spp.

livingplanet3 < I didn't know that, thanks for the info.

wollastoni wrote: ↑Sat Feb 17, 2024 10:23 am livingplanet3 < I didn't know that, thanks for the info.

There's a theory that cutting the edges of the host plant simulates the damage caused by nymphs chewing, and so might possibly encourage them to feed. Also, it may cause the release of volatile compounds that the nymphs will respond to. I've wondered if this method might also be applicable to the larvae of Lepidoptera.