# New stick insect species discoveries in Australia > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/new-stick-insect-species-discoveries-in-australia > Updated: 2026-10-01T14:30:23.000Z. Sources: 13. Developments: 3. Researchers from the University of Sydney have identified new stick insect species within the Anchiale genus in Australia. Initial findings detailed the discovery of Anchiale mabiensis, an endemic species found in the critically endangered Mabi forest, and the reclassification of Anchiale robusta through genetic and anatomical analysis. Subsequent research published in ‘Austral Entomology’ expanded on these findings, revealing that what were previously thought to be two species in eastern Australia are actually five distinct species. The studies highlight the high level of biodiversity and mimicry capabilities among Australia’s approximately 130 stick insect species. A study led by 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 team noted that Anchiale robusta had been misidentified for a significant period, with some records involving incorrect nomenclature dating back to 1976. In addition to correcting existing classifications, the team formally described two entirely new species within the genus, one of which possesses a unique, lidlike egg structure. These identified species are distributed across Australia, ranging from northern New South Wales through coastal Queensland and into tropical northern Australia. ## Claims - Researchers from the University of Sydney described new stick insect species in Australia. (corroborated by 5 sources) - The findings were published in the journal 'Austral Entomology'. (corroborated by 5 sources) - Two species of the genus Anchiale living in eastern Australia are actually five distinct species. (corroborated by 5 sources) - The world record for the longest stick insect is held by Phryganistria chinensis from southern China, measuring 64 centimeters. (corroborated by 5 sources) - Stick insects use mimicry to camouflage themselves by imitating plant parts like branches or leaves. (corroborated by 5 sources) ## Timeline ### 2026-10-01: University of Sydney researchers identify five species of Anchiale stick insects University of Sydney researchers discovered that the Anchiale stick insect genus comprises five species instead of two, identifying two new species and correcting decades of misidentification. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/university-of-sydney-researchers-identify-five-species-of-anchiale-stick-insects ### 2026-09-25: University of Sydney researchers identify new stick insect species in Australia University of Sydney researchers have identified five distinct species of Anchiale stick insects in eastern Australia, expanding the known diversity of these mimicry-specialist insects. 9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/university-of-sydney-researchers-identify-new-stick-insect-species-in-australia ### 2026-09-21: Two new stick insect species discovered in Queensland, Australia Researchers have discovered two new stick insect species, Anchiale mabiensis and Anchiale robusta, in Queensland, Australia, highlighting the need for rainforest conservation. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/two-new-stick-insect-species-discovered-in-queensland-australia --- Cite as: New stick insect species discoveries in Australia. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/new-stick-insect-species-discoveries-in-australia