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Now that you know the different characteristics of an insect and their structure, let’s have a look at a few of them with features that might be useful for you to learn about when designing your InsectBot.
Weta
You might have recognised this emblematic insect. Wētā have been around long enough to see dinosaurs come and go and to evolve into more than 100 different species, all of them endemic to New Zealand. In this following video, you will learn about its unique characteristics. Check out the Giant Weta. And did you know that the Mountain Stone Wētā has the ability to survive extreme cold! Watch this! Insect returns from the dead
Cockroaches
They are definitely not the nicest insect you can find but they are actually quite interesting…
Did you know that there are 5,000 different types of cockroaches on the planet, they can sense danger through their hair and they can withstand compressive forces of up to 900 times its own weight! Do you understand now why they are so hard to get rid of?
Watch this funny video to learn more… Why are cockroaches so hard to kill?
Stick Insects
They are fascinating creatures that can change colours to fit in with their surroundings, can defend themselves against predators by producing an unpleasant tasting substance and females can reproduce without the help of a male!
Learn more in this following article and watch the video. Stick Insects
It might also be worth it for you to understand how they move. How a Stick Insect Walks
Here is a book you can read about stick insects. It is called Stick Insects by Steve Trewick and Mary Morgan-Richards. Go to your local library!
Morgane is passionate about stick insects and even made it her main subject at the University of Auckland 3MT Final in August 2020. She actually won the competition!! Watch the video of her presentation below. Ecology and diversity of camouflage NZ stick insects – Morgan Merien.
Go to: > InsectBot Home > Learn About Insects