Please note that the photos of animals and plants may not accurately represent our current stock and could include past orders or stock images. Some images may showcase more mature specimens, as certain species do not display their full colors or patterns until maturity. While we strive to accommodate requests for additional photos, we cannot guarantee their availability. Thank you for your understanding!
Description
Young Chinese Praying mantis (Tenodera aridifolia sinensis) freshly hatched from the egg case. In small container to house while it grows to larger size. Can be fed fruitflies when small and can take large crickets or similar when adult.
The Chinese mantis (Tenodera aridifolia sinensis) is a mantis species native to Asia and nearby islands, accidentally introduced to the United States in 1896. Often mistakenly called Tenodera aridifolia sinensis, it is now recognized as a distinct species. These mantises primarily feed on insects but adult females may catch small vertebrates like reptiles, amphibians, and even hummingbirds. Cannibalism is common, especially during mating.
Native to China, Japan, the Korean Peninsula, Micronesia, and Thailand, the Chinese mantis lives for about a year. They hatch in spring, grow and molt through summer, and lay eggs at the end of the season.
When kept as pets, Chinese mantises require an enclosure three times their height and twice their width, with good ventilation and materials for hanging during molting. These mantises can grow over 4 inches long. Enclosures can be living vivariums with live plants and microfauna or temporary setups with silk plants and disposable substrates. They thrive in temperatures between 70°F and 85°F and humidity levels of 50% to 60%. Regular misting is necessary for drinking water. They eat a variety of prey, with adults capable of handling larger insects like crickets and cockroaches.