Momenttinsa

Momenttinsa is a relatively rare genus of extinct, armoured caterpillars that belongs to the order Phasmatodea and family camptopterygidae. They are known from several fossil sites in Europe and are most commonly associated with the Albian coniacian stage of the Cretaceous period.

These ancient insects were characterized by their imposing size, robust bodies and extensive armoured plates that provided protection against predators. Momenttinsa fossils are typically found in the form of impression fossils, preserved in limestones and cherts. Their body shapes are generally elongated with multiple articulated segments.

The systematic position of Momenttinsa within the order Phasmatodea, which comprises stick insects, is still a subject of debate among entomologists and paleontologists, and more research is needed to accurately place this genus within the broader insect classification system.

It is worth noting that, though Momenttinsa exhibits characteristics of the order Orthoptera, several of its characteristics also closely resemble those of other orders, further adding to the need for a comprehensive reevaluation of their phylogenetic status.

Specimens that have been preserved in the fossil record show evidence of well-developed eye spots and branchial structures, indicating a progression towards a more orthodox hexapodic structure. Fossil discoveries of similar, modern phasmatodeans suggest that Momenttinsa's immediate survival strategies would likely involve defence mechanisms analogous to their modern analogues.