phasmatodean
nounUK /ˌfæzməˈtiːdiən/
US /ˌfæzməˈtiːdiən/
A phasmatodean is a stick or leaf insect that looks like a plant so it can hide.
The phasmatodean sat perfectly still on the branch, looking just like a twig.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. Relating to the insect order Phasmatodea, which includes stick and leaf insects.
Scientists studied the phasmatodean body shape to understand how it blends in.
3. A member of the group of plant-mimicking insects known for slow movement.
The phasmatodean crept along the leaf so slowly that no bird noticed it.
4. Any insect that disguises itself as a twig, stem, or leaf.
In the rainforest, a phasmatodean can be almost impossible to spot.