Defensive behavior and display of the leaf-mimicking katydid <i>Pterochroza ocellata</i> (L.) (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae: Pseudophyllinae: Pterochrozini

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Castner, J. L. 1995. Defensive behavior and display of the leaf-mimicking katydid Pterochroza ocellata (L.) (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae: Pseudophyllinae: Pterochrozini). Journal of Orthoptera Research 4:89.

Abstract:

The leaf-mimicking katydid Pterochroza ocellata resembles a dead or diseased leaf when at rest. When disturbed, this katydid elicits a threatening eyespot display, presenting visual elements similar to those found on an avian face. Behavioral components of this display are described and quantified. The threatening display was found to vary in duration, and in several cases was followed by escape behavior and the resumption of a cryptic attitude differing from the initial resting posture. Both male and female P. ocellata have the same primary defenses (camouflage/leaf resemblance) and secondary defenses (eyespots/threatening display).

Keywords: mimicry, eyespots, camouflage, defensive behavior, threatening display, Orthoptera, Tettigoniidae, Pseudophyllinae, Pterochrozini

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