Praying Mantis

May 9, 2008

Praying Mantis

Although many refer to a member of this group as a ‘praying mantis,’ mantis refers to the genus Mantis. Only some praying mantids belong to the genus Mantis. Mantid refers to the entire group. A general insect predator of most pest insects, mites and eggs.

The praying mantis produces egg cases, each of which contains approximately 200 baby mantids. Mantids are very efficient and deadly predators that capture and eat a wide variety of insects and other small prey. They have a “neck” that allows the head to rotate 180 degrees while waiting for a meal to wander by. Camouflage coloration allows mantids to blend in with the background as they sit on twigs and stems waiting to ambush prey. The two front legs of the mantids are highly specialized.

When hunting mantids assume a “praying” position, folding the legs under their head. They use the front legs to strike out and capture their prey. Long sharp spines on the upper insides of these legs allow them to hold to on their prey. The impaled prey is held firmly in place while being eaten. The spines fit into a groove on the lower parts of the leg when not in use.

Written by admin · Filed Under Beneficial Insects