Ancylecha fenestrata

Ancylecha fenestrata – Camouflage on another level

Ancylecha fenestrata is one of the most fascinating leafhoppers of all. Even at first glance, the animal looks less like a grasshopper and more like a real leaf among the plants.

The intense green coloration, the fine leaf veins and the typical “feeding marks” on the wings provide a camouflage that looks almost perfect. This is precisely why the animals literally disappear between bramble leaves, branches and plants.

The natural movement is particularly exciting. Instead of running frantically, the animals move slowly and sway slightly, almost as if they were moving in the wind. It is precisely this behavior that makes the species incredibly fascinating to observe.

Quiet climbers with natural behavior

Ancylecha fenestrata shows a very calm and controlled behavior. During the day, the animals often sit motionless between the plants and rely completely on their camouflage.

They only become more active in the evening and slowly begin to climb through the terrarium or feed on the food plants. They move with astonishing caution and elegance.

Especially in densely furnished natural terrariums, the behavior looks extremely authentic and is strongly reminiscent of real rainforest scenes.

Terrarium size and set-up

A well-ventilated high terrarium with lots of plants and climbing areas is suitable for keeping them. They work particularly well:

• Repto Terra Sky
• Phasmid complete set
• larger gazeterrariums

The furnishings should be as natural and dense as possible. The following have proved particularly successful:

• Blackberry twigs
• Repto Plant Vines
• branched branches
• Plants
• Dry and fresh foliage

Lots of vertical climbing areas are particularly important, as the animals like to sit up high and need sufficient space for moulting.

Climate and care

For successful keeping, you should adhere to the following values:

• Temperature: 24-28 °C
• Humidity: 60-80 %

The terrarium should be lightly sprayed regularly so that the animals can drink and the climate remains stable. At the same time, good ventilation is extremely important to prevent stagnant damp air.

With a GLORIA fine sprayer can be used to regulate the humidity particularly finely.

Feeding

Ancylecha fenestrata feeds mainly on various leaves. They are particularly well accepted:

• Blackberry leaves
• Raspberry leaves
• Oak leaves
• Hazelnut leaves

Ideally, the food twigs should be offered fresh in water. The cricket box from the Phasmid complete setas the twigs stand securely and stay fresh for longer.

Moulting and development

Like many leaf-like grasshoppers Ancylecha fenestrata sufficient upward space for problem-free moulting. This is precisely why high terrariums and free hanging areas are particularly important.

Young animals often appear much slimmer at first and only fully develop their characteristic leaf appearance as they grow older.

Important points on posture

• Well ventilated high terrarium important
• Many plants and branches recommended
• Calm and elegant style
• High humidity with good ventilation
• Plenty of space required for moulting

Suitable accessories for your setup

We recommend a stable and natural setup:

• Repto Terra Sky – ideal high terrarium
• Phasmid complete set – perfect for keeping
• Repto Plant vines – additional climbing areas
• GLORIA fine sprayer – Controlled humidity

This creates a dense and natural forest setup in which the animals can fully display their perfect camouflage and calm behavior.

Conclusion

Ancylecha fenestrata is one of the most impressive leafhoppers of all. The perfect camouflage, elegant movement and calm behavior make this species a real highlight for near-natural terrariums.

Anyone looking for unusual plant inhabitants with a fascinating appearance and natural behavior will have a lot of fun with this species.