Two new stick insect species identified in far north Queensland

Australian entomologists have formally described two previously unknown stick‑insect species, Anchiale robusta and Anchiale mabiensis, from the far‑north region of Queensland. The findings were detailed in a paper published this week in Austral Entomology, highlighting the discovery as evidence that insect diversity in the area remains poorly documented despite extensive research efforts. Both species are notably large for stick insects and were identified through field surveys and morphological analysis conducted by a team of local researchers.

The study underscores the broader challenges of cataloguing biodiversity in remote Australian habitats and adds to a growing list of recent insect discoveries nationwide. Readers can follow ongoing updates on the story through the Australia news live blog, and climate and environment editor Adam Morton’s free “Clear Air” newsletter offers additional coverage of related environmental research.