30 of the Most Absurd-Looking Mantis Species
Devil's Flower Mantis
Hillary Kladke / Getty Images
The devil's flower mantis (Idolomantis diabolica) is another species native to Sub-Saharan Africa, but one that grows to a much larger size. Adult females, which are larger than males, can be five inches long, making it one of the largest mantis varieties. Males tend to be smaller, around four inches in length.2 A defining characteristic is its defensive display, in which it raises its forelegs to reveal a stark black-and-white underside and appear larger than it truly is.3 Thanks to its intense coloration and dramatic displays, it's a popular pet, and thousands are imported to Western countries every year.
Hillary Kladke / Getty Images
The devil's flower mantis (Idolomantis diabolica) is another species native to Sub-Saharan Africa, but one that grows to a much larger size. Adult females, which are larger than males, can be five inches long, making it one of the largest mantis varieties. Males tend to be smaller, around four inches in length.2 A defining characteristic is its defensive display, in which it raises its forelegs to reveal a stark black-and-white underside and appear larger than it truly is.3 Thanks to its intense coloration and dramatic displays, it's a popular pet, and thousands are imported to Western countries every year.
Advertisements
27 December 2023
Advertisements
