PHASMIDJE. 
73 
which enables the insect to throw off a leg with ease, this leg being later 
formed anew. It has been observed that not only is this useful as a pro¬ 
tection from enemies but also in moulting, as few Phasmids can moult 
successfully without remaining attached to the cast skin by a leg, and 
this adaptation enables the moult to be completed, though with the loss 
of a limb. (Bordage.) The food is apparently wholly vegetable 
and no cases are recorded of these insects being carnivorous ; they eat 
the leaves of plants and some possibly feed upon lichens. None are 
injurious in India and their habitat is practically confined to the forest 
and jungle areas of the warmer parts of India. Not much is known of 
Fig. 18—Phyllium scythe. 
