University of Sydney researchers identify five species of Anchiale stick insects

A study led by the University of Sydney has revealed that the stick insect genus Anchiale contains five distinct species, rather than the two previously recognized. Researchers, including postdoctoral research associate Dr. Braxton Jones, utilized DNA analysis, museum specimens, and citizen science data from platforms like iNaturalist to correct decades of misidentification.

The research found that Anchiale robusta had been misidentified for a significant period, with some records dating back to 1976 involving incorrect nomenclature. In addition to correcting the classification of existing species, the team formally described two entirely new species within the genus, one of which features a unique, lidlike egg structure.

The identified species are distributed across Australia, ranging from northern New South Wales through coastal Queensland and into tropical northern Australia.