The Lonchodiodes sp. "Ilocos" is a popular and beginner-friendly species of stick insect native to the Ilocos region of Luzon Island in the Philippines. It is commonly known in the pet trade as the Ruby & Emeralds or Red Stick Insect due to the vibrant and distinct coloration between males and females. 
 
Key Characteristics
Appearance: The species exhibits strong sexual dimorphism.
Females are larger, around 12 cm in length, and are typically an olive-green or brown color with white and yellow spots on their legs and a black stripe on the side of their thorax.
Males are smaller, around 9-10 cm, and are a striking, rich red color as adults, with the back part of their abdomen and legs turning black with red spots.
Nymphs (young) are bright green and maintain this color until their final molt into sub-adults or adults.
Behavior: They are nocturnal but males can be quite active during the day. They are docile and easy to handle, though young nymphs may be prone to autotomy (shedding a limb) if handled roughly. No defensive spray has been observed. 
 
Husbandry and Care
Lonchodiodes sp. "Ilocos" is an easy-to-breed and generally very hardy species, suitable for both novice and experienced hobbyists. 
Enclosure: A tall, well-ventilated terrarium is essential to allow them adequate space to hang and successfully molt their skins.
Temperature & Humidity: They thrive at standard room temperatures, ideally between 20–25°C (68–77°F). A relative humidity of 70-80% is ideal, maintained by light misting of the enclosure every 2 to 3 days.
Diet: They are herbivores and readily accept a variety of fresh leaves. Preferred food plants include:
Bramble (blackberry bush)
Raspberry
Oak
Beech
Hazel
Rose
Breeding: Reproduction is sexual, and females start laying eggs a couple of weeks after their final molt. The eggs are simply dropped to the ground and take approximately four months to hatch.