Potted plants as food?

Potted plants as food?

Postby Bernice » Tue Sep 15, 2015 6:36 pm

Heres a question to all the the phasmid keepers...

Any and all research I have done sais to feed fresh branches in a vase or some-such container...

Why not live, trimmed plants in pots that fit in the cage? cant you have a few potted food-plant specimens that get cycled out every so often so the bugs dont eat them to badly?

The only drawback I can think about is getting the bugs off the old plant and onto the new one, but surely that applies to the branches as well?

Ideas? Comments?
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Re: Potted plants as food?

Postby Westley Price » Wed Sep 16, 2015 1:49 pm

Hi Bernice

This could theoretically work, but it is not very practical.

Problem with nymphs are that they often require the edges of leaves to be cut to allow them to feed easier as well as to entice them to start feeding. Cutting the leaves of a live plant will quickly result in a dead potted plant.

Then the problem with the adults is that they have such a massive apatite that you would quickly need to buy a new plant anyway, especially if you have a good amount of adults.

Getting the bugs off the plants can be tricky with some species, but as long as you have good lighting and patience, you should be okay with live or cut plants.
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Re: Potted plants as food?

Postby Bernice » Wed Sep 16, 2015 7:49 pm

Makes sense... Thanks Westley!
Happiness is a fat mouse and a warm rock!

Dont fly! 4X4! The noble eagle may soar! but a weasel wont get sucked into a jet intake valve...

Some people are like a slinky spring, they make you smile when you push them down a flight of stairs!
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Bernice
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