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Cymatomera denticollis, commonly known as the Common Bark Katydid, is a nocturnal African insect that perfectly mimics tree bark to hide from predators during the day. Found in woodlands (savannahs, miombo, mopane) south of the Sahara, it is notable for its flattened, fuzzy body and its active defense of flashing bright red-orange and black abdomen colors along with releasing noxious, foul-smelling chemical spray.
Key Facts About Cymatomera denticollis:
Camouflage & Appearance: It is a bark mimic with a flat body, often covered in fine fuzz to resemble lichen-covered bark. Its legs are flattened and lobed to help eliminate its shadow.
Defense Mechanism: When threatened, the katydid fans its wings to expose a brightly colored, red-orange, and black abdomen and releases a noxious, foul-smelling liquid. This is thought to be a chemical defense, likely using repellent pyrazines, to deter primates and birds.
Behavior: It is nocturnal and spends the daylight hours resting, pressed tightly against the trunks of trees.
Habitat: Primarily found in open woodland savannahs, as well as dense forested areas in Southern Africa.
Diet: The Common Bark Katydid (Cymatomera denticollis) on iNaturalist is a plant-feeder.Identification: The species is characterized by the two thin black lines on its pronotum (part of the thorax).
