Pulchriphyllium bioculatum "Tapah Hills" is one of the most popular leaf insect species in captive culture. Native to the Tapah Hills in western Malaysia, this remarkable insect was first scientifically described by British entomologist George Robert Gray in 1832; hence, this leaf insect is also known as Gray's leaf insect.
Pulchriphyllium bioculatum "Tapah Hills"
Appearance
The appearance of Pulchriphyllium bioculatum "Tapah Hills" varies significantly depending on the insect’s sex and developmental stage.
Nymphs: Newly hatched nymphs are a beautiful reddish-brown colour, measuring approximately 16–20 mm in length and 8–9 mm in width. Their appearance closely resembles that of a large ant. Within several weeks of feeding, they transition to the characteristic green colouration of the leaf insect.
L1 nymph with its fiery red colouration
Females: Adult females of Pulchriphyllium bioculatum "Tapah Hills" have wide, flattened, irregular bodies with enlarged forelegs. They typically display shades of light green but can also appear in striking variations of reddish-brown and even vibrant yellow. Brown spots and patterns often decorate their bodies, ranging from subtle to conspicuous, enhancing their camouflage. Females grow to impressive lengths of 90–95 mm. While they have broad forewings that cover nearly 75% of their abdomen, these wings are non-functional and do not support flight. They also have two short antennae, each about 5 mm long.
Males: Adult males are more uniform in size, measuring 60–65 mm in length. Unlike females, males possess fully developed forewings and hindwings, which allow for strong flight. Their colouration typically transforms after their final moult—from green to a striking golden hue.
Lifespan
Females live for ~8-12 months.
Males live for ~6-9 months and mature faster than females.
Behaviour
Pulchriphyllium bioculatum "Tapah Hills", like most other leaf insect species, are docile by nature, making them an excellent species for observation and gentle handling. They tend to remain motionless during daylight hours, becoming active at night when they move about and feed. Males can be more challenging to handle due to their strong flying capabilities.
Newly hatched nymphs, however, can display hyperactive behaviour. This initial burst of movement typically settles as they acclimate to their environment and adopt the more sedentary habits typical of the species.
Selection of L3/L4 female and male individuals
Diet
Pulchriphyllium bioculatum "Tapah Hills" primarily feed on bramble, oak, raspberry, and salal leaves. When selecting food plants, always ensure they are free from insecticides or other harmful chemicals. It’s also important to note that Pulchriphyllium prefer older, darker-coloured leaves over new growth—especially in the case of bramble. This preference is particularly critical for nymphs, as young, tender leaves can be toxic to them.
Before offering any food to your Pulchriphyllium, it is advisable to wash the cuttings thoroughly with water.
Young nymphs face a unique challenge when feeding: they often struggle to eat from undamaged leaves, which can lead to high mortality in captive settings. To help them, use scissors to carefully cut the edges of leaves. This small action can significantly improve survival rates during their early stages.
To prolong the freshness of food plants and reduce maintenance, consider placing cuttings in a pot of water inside the enclosure. Be sure to cover or narrow the pot’s opening to prevent the insects from falling in and drowning.
Always provide a fresh supply of food. On average, clean the enclosure once a week—replacing old leaves with fresh ones, removing waste, and adding new substrate. This routine is also the ideal time to collect any eggs that have been laid.
Environmental conditions
Pulchriphyllium bioculatum "Tapah Hills" is a relatively easy species to care for when it comes to environmental requirements.
Temperature: Maintain daytime temperatures between 24°C and 28°C, allowing a nighttime drop to 18°C–21°C. Standard room temperatures are usually sufficient for this species.
Humidity: Humidity is critical to the health and development of this species, especially for successful moulting. Aim for humidity levels around 60–80%. Mist the enclosure once or twice daily, focusing primarily on the food plant. Always use non-chlorinated water to avoid harming the insects. For improved humidity retention, consider using paper towel or coir (coconut fibre) as a substrate.
Lighting: Mimic natural day/night cycles using natural light or a light source on a timer. Nymphs appear to benefit from strong daylight conditions.
Housing
Provide an enclosure at least three times the insect's length in height and twice in width. For adults, a minimum size of 30cm x 30cm x 45cm (width x length x height) is recommended for this species. The more height available, the better, as this allows the leaf insect more room when hanging down during moulting.
Nymphs in an Exo Terrra glass enclosure (30cm*30cm*45cm, W*L*H)
For young nymphs, two enclosure setups are advisable: either a large enough space where the food plant doesn't touch the enclosure walls, preventing nymphs from wandering off, or a smaller enclosure allowing nymphs to easily return to their food plant. In either case it is crucial nymphs can find their way back to feed.
Proper ventilation is equally important as maintaining high humidity. Ensure ample airflow to prevent stagnant conditions. At a minimum, a mesh or netted roof is recommended. Netted material also provides easier grip for the insects, which is especially beneficial during moulting.
Breeding, incubation, and hatching
Unlike Pulchriphyllium giganteum "Tapah Hills", both males and females are common in Pulchriphyllium bioculatum "Tapah Hills" populations, allowing for sexual reproduction. After their final moult to adulthood, males and females begin mating within 2-3 weeks, with females laying fertilised eggs shortly after.
Females typically lay ~2-3 eggs per day over a period of about three months, dropping them to the floor of the enclosure with a whip-like movement of their abdomen. The eggs, measuring ~7.2mm in length and ~4mm in width, are light to dark brown or tan in colour and resemble seeds when first laid. A distinctive feature of Pulchriphyllium bioculatum "Tapah Hills" eggs is their unique surface structure, characterised by five prominent ridges. This feature helps distinguish bioculatum eggs from other leaf insect species.
Incubation usually takes 4-5 months but can extend to 7-8 months depending on conditions. Maintain eggs on moist substrate such as paper towel or coconut fibre at 23°C-28°C, ensuring daily light exposure and monitoring for mould. If you notice mould on an egg, carefully remove it from the container. You can attempt to gently wipe off the mould using a clean paper towel or soft brush. However, if the mould growth is extensive, it's best to discard the egg to protect the health of the others. If mould has developed, thoroughly clean the container housing the eggs. Pay particular attention to the substrate, especially if using paper towels. Vermiculite or coconut fibre substrates are less prone to mould growth.
