Phyllium Letiranti
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''Phyllium letiranti'' is a
species In biology, a species is the basic unit of classification and a taxonomic rank of an organism, as well as a unit of biodiversity. A species is often defined as the largest group of organisms in which any two individuals of the appropriate s ...
of phasmid or walking leaf of the
genus Genus ( plural genera ) is a taxonomic rank used in the biological classification of extant taxon, living and fossil organisms as well as Virus classification#ICTV classification, viruses. In the hierarchy of biological classification, genus com ...
'' Phyllium''. It is only found on the island of Peleng in
Indonesia Indonesia, officially the Republic of Indonesia, is a country in Southeast Asia and Oceania between the Indian and Pacific oceans. It consists of over 17,000 islands, including Sumatra, Java, Sulawesi, and parts of Borneo and New Guine ...
.


Description

''Phyllium letiranti'' is found on Peleng Island, Indonesia. It is recognized as a distinct species because of its moroplogical differences. Though similarities can be seen in other phyllium, unique features separate the species. ''Phyllium letiranti'' is most similar to ''Phyllium'' (''Ph.'') ''mamasaense'' Größer, 2008. This is realistic based on geographic proximity as well. It is likely that through more analysis and research of this cryptic species group more species will arise.


Diet and habitat

Phyllium are known to feed on various tropical tree leaves including, Guava, Mango, and Bramble (Rubus sp.). This particular species is currently only known from Tataba, a village in Indonesia, though it is assumed their range may be larger. This is a leading drive for more research in the future. Given their incredible camouflage, it is challenging to find these individuals in the wild, however successful efforts have been made through blacklight trapping.


Etymology

Named to honor, collections manager of the Montreal Insectarium, Stephane Le Tirant. Le Tirant, is a prominent entomologist specializing in scarab beetles but who also has always had a passion for walking leafs. As a result of his travels and insect collection, valuable entomological research and discovery are made possible.


References

{{Taxonbar, from=Q103425594 Phylliidae Phasmatodea of Malesia