Husbandry Manual Goliath Stick Insect - Nswfmpa.org

Husbandry Manual for Eurycnema goliath
Tara Bearman
4 Housing Requirements
4.1 Exhibit/Enclosure Design
The goliath stick insect can be kept in many ways successfully the following design is a simple
design that can be modified to meet individual institution requirements.
The insects should be given as much space as possible (see spatial requirements) this will allow
them to perform all their natural behaviours. For an indoor enclosure the base of the enclosure
should be made of a material that is easily cleaned and not porous. The most suitable materials
for the base are glass or wood. The walls of the enclosure are best made from glass and the roof
should be made from weathered mesh, this will give the enclosure suitable ventilation. For an
outdoor enclosure the same materials may be used however it is important to note that keeping
the humidity levels up is harder and the insects will require misting more often. For all enclosures
the most suitable entry is via a set of doors that opens outwards. Sliding doors are not
recommended, as the insects can get caught in the doors. A heat lamp and thermostat is also
recommended to keep the temperature just above room temperature.
It is recommended that the phasmid enclosures are checked every 6 months for any necessary
maintenance repairs and upgrades.
The use of plastics in enclosure design is an easier and cheaper alternative to glass and wood,
however plastics degrade over time and may release toxins while degrading. These toxins may
affect your insects by contributing to high mortality rates in nymphs and deformities in adults (L.
Jefferys, pers. comm.). Further research needs to be conducted to confirm the extent that these
toxins may have on your phasmids. When cleaning plastic enclosures scratches can also be made
in the plastic material, this is a suitable place for bacteria and fungi to thrive as they can never be
cleaned properly. This increases the risk of bacterial or fungal infections in your phasmids.
4.2 Holding Area/ Off Exhibit Design
Use the same design as for the exhibit / enclosure. It should be noted that Sydney Wildlife World
use pet packs quite successfully to hold their stick insects when off display providing they remain
indoors (A. Polak, pers. comm.).
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