Spiny flower mantis — printable fact sheet

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Spiny flower mantis

Pseudocreobotra wahlbergii

The Spiny flower mantis is a strikingly colorful praying mantis species native to sub-Saharan Africa. It is renowned for its elaborate body patterns, bright coloration, and distinctive spiny projections on its thorax. This small mantis mimics flowers both in appearance and behav…

Classification

Invertebrate

Family

Hymenopodidae

Habitat

Tropical and subtropical forests, savannas, and gardens

Diet

Carnivore

Conservation status

Least Concern

Lifespan

6-9 months

Weight

0.5-1.2 grams

Scientific name

Pseudocreobotra wahlbergii

Did you know?

Despite their delicate appearance, Spiny flower mantises are fierce predators capable of capturing prey much larger than themselves.
Spiny flower mantises can rotate their heads nearly 180 degrees to scan their surroundings. Their nymphs mimic ants in early stages to avoid predation. The species is popular in the exotic pet trade due to its manageable size and beautiful appearance.

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