US Stick Insect & Mantid Discovery Mission

Across the forests, deserts, wetlands, and mountains of the United States live some of the most remarkable insects on Earth: stick insects (Phasmida) and praying mantises (Mantodea). Masters of camouflage and stealth, these insects represent extraordinary examples of evolution, behavior, and ecological adaptation.

Despite their incredible defensive adaptations, biosynthesized chemicals, and ecological importance, they remain surprisingly understudied in the United States. Records are scattered across old publications, museum collections, and occasional citizen science observations. Many species have poorly documented ranges, and some may still be unknown to science.

Even more surprisingly, there is no modern, comprehensive field guide covering the stick insects and mantises of the United States, and many species have never been photographed or documented in detail in the wild.

We are launching a multi-year biodiversity survey to change that.

Our project will systematically document the Phasmida and Mantodea of the United States, combining field expeditions, scientific photography, specimen collection, and taxonomic research to produce the first modern reference for these incredible insects.

Why This Matters

Stick insects and mantises play important roles in ecosystems.

Phasmids are specialized herbivores closely tied to specific host plants and microclimates, making them sensitive indicators of habitat quality and environmental change. Mantises are top invertebrate predators, helping regulate insect populations and maintain ecological balance.

Because these insects depend heavily on vegetation structure, temperature, and humidity, changes in their distribution can reveal subtle shifts in ecosystems and climate.

At the same time, both groups capture the public imagination. Their incredible camouflage, behaviors, and predatory adaptations make them ideal ambassadors for biodiversity and science education.

What We Will Do

Over several field seasons, our team will conduct targeted surveys across the United States, focusing on regions where diversity is highest or poorly documented.

Fieldwork will include:

• Day and night surveys in forests, deserts, wetlands, and mountains
• Live photography of specimens in natural habitats
• Collection of voucher specimens for museum collections
• Habitat documentation and distribution mapping
• Identification of potential new species and undocumented range expansions

Specimens will be preserved and deposited in research collections, ensuring the data remains available for future scientists.

If new species are discovered, they will be formally described in peer-reviewed scientific publications.

What This Project Will Produce

This work will result in several major scientific and educational resources:

A Comprehensive Field Guide
A photographic guide to the stick insects and mantises of the United States, including identification keys, distribution maps, and natural history information.

Updated Taxonomic Resources
Improved identification tools and updated species records for researchers and naturalists.

Museum Specimens
Voucher specimens deposited in recognized collections to support long-term biodiversity research.

Scientific Publications
Peer-reviewed papers describing new species, range expansions, and ecological insights.

Public Engagement
Opportunities for students, naturalists, and community members to participate in field research and biodiversity discovery.