Order Mantodea
Mantids, Praying
Mantids
General Description
The name Mantodea is derived from "mantis", the Greek word for these insects.
Some entomologists and taxonomists may group Mantodea as a suborder of the Order Orthoptera.
Morphological Characteristics
Immatures:
 | Structurally similar to adults |
| Developing wingpads often visible on thorax |
Adults:
| Relatively large (over 3 cm) |
| Filiform antennae short |
| Head triangular with well-developed compound eyes |
| Mouthparts mandibulate, hypognathous |
| Prothorax elongate with large, spiny front legs adapted for catching prey |
| Front wings thickened, more slender than hind wings |
| Tarsi 5-segmented |
| Cerci short, multi-segmented |
Biology
| specialized predatory lifestyle |
| cryptic coloration for hiding in foliage or flowers. |
| Stalk other insects |
| Female will eat male after mating |
Distribution
These insects are common in tropical and subtropical climates. In North America, there are 20 species, all from a single family; worldwide, there are about 1,800 species in 8 families.
Economic Importance
Mantids are considered to be highly beneficial insects because they feed on other insects which may be pests. They are cannibalistic and also feed on other beneficial insects so their value is somewhat limited.
Interesting Facts
| Mantids are the only insects that can turn their head from side to side without moving any other part of the body. |
| Although mantids usually feed on insect prey, they have been known to catch and eat small frogs, lizards, and even birds. |
Mantis Study Group - facilitates communication between member enthusiasts and fosters the study of Mantids. Includes guidelines for keeping praying mantids.
Wondrous Praying Mantis - includes a link to a web-diary of a terrarium project which contains mantises, a green snake, a Madagascar hissing roach, an African millipede, and other assorted