IN CULTURE

Species of Orthomeria are not the easiest of phasmids to keep, requiring more space due to their more active lifestyles. As mentioned before, these are fast-moving insects, and merely opening the enclosure can trigger these animals to move frantically around. If the lid is too large, one can expect escapees.

I have fared dismally with these animals in the past but am now attempting to keep them again, using a glass and plastic screen enclosure measuring 3x2x2 feet and kept quite bare except for potted plants that provide cover and food. Hanging plants above the enclosure provide dappled shade and more humidity, particularly after the plants have been watered.

For substrate, you have two options: a “natural” one that is heavy in organics (e.g. coco peat), or vermiculite. It doesn’t really seem to matter except that phasmids drop their eggs on the ground and if you use soil or anything similar, then you may have a difficult time looking for the eggs. Another disadvantage when using soil or coco peat is that if cage humidity is too high and ventilation low, then the eggs may be attacked by molds.

A healthy population of spring tails (Collembola spp.) can keep molds at bay. A more simplified approach is to use vermiculite, which drastically reduces the chances of eggs getting moldy, and there is the added benefit of being able to see the eggs better than if these were sitting on soil.

Orthomeria, like many other genera, appreciate some light, although direct sunlight is best avoided. Likewise, loud music and frequent movements outside their enclosures can elevate their stress levels.