Identity
Order / Family
Orthoptera / Tettigoniidae
Adult size
Large katydid ~7–8 cm
Activity
Nocturnal; arboreal
Temperament
Display; spiny defensive head
Enclosure and conditions
Temperature
25–30 °C
Humidity
70–80% (mist)
Min. enclosure
Tall mesh/vivarium with foliage
Furnishings
Branches & leaves to climb/feed
Diet
Staple food
Herbivore — fresh leaves (bramble, oak), fruit
Note
Some individuals take protein — offer occasionally
Behaviour and handling
Handling
Minimal — spiny, can nip
Molting
Molts hanging — needs vertical space + humidity
Reproduction
Reproduction
Lays eggs in substrate; nymphs need same care
Common health problems
Failed molt
Signslow humidity / no vertical space
Prevent≥ 2× body height + 70–80% humidity
When to see a vet
Not veterinary advice.
Good to know
- Its armoured, spiny 'dragon' head is pure bluff — a striking display invert.
Others in this group
Caribbean / Purple Pincher Hermit CrabCoenobita clypeatusGiant African Land SnailLissachatina fulicaRed Apple CrabMetasesarma aubryiIndonesian / Purple Land Hermit CrabCoenobita brevimanusRuggie Land Hermit CrabCoenobita rugosusVampire Crab (assorted Geosesarma)Geosesarma sp. (e.g. dennerle, 'red devil')Giant Pink-foot / Immaculate Land SnailAchatina immaculataGiant West African / Banana Rasp SnailArchachatina marginata