Ant Mantis
odontomantis micans, amply named the ant mantis is a small species from tropical areas of Asia. They perfectly mimic ants from the colors to morphology at younger instars, developing green hues as they reach adult. They only reach around 1 inch as adults.
Ant Mantis Care
Housing:
Mantids don’t require much space but the cage or container needs to be able to accommodate them as they grow. Generally the container must be 3x the mantis length and 2x for the width. It must be well ventilated to prevent the growth of mold
This species can be canabalistic
Temperature:
They prefer temps from 75-80 F and can go lower at night. Anything lower than 65 can be dangerous. A heat lamp or heating pad can be used to get the desired temp.
Humidity:
They prefer humidity higher than 60% . Misting every day can meet these requirements
Water:
Mantids do not require standing water to drink and receive most of their moisture from their food. They will however drink water drops from misting. Good ventilation is required to prevent mold growth from higher humidity
Feeding:
Flying insects are the preferred source of food. As nymphs fruit flies are the ideal food source and increase to house flies adults. They also will enjoy moths or other harmless flying insects. It’s recommended that the size of the feeder insect does not exceed 1/2 the mantis length. These are small mantids that can be shy around food.