Dead LEaf Mantis
Deroplatys disiccata is one of several species called Dead Leaf Mantis. All species within this group resemble decaying leaves of some sort especially as adults. Deroplatys lobata have a very wide prothorax that resembles a torn dead leaves. They range in color from dark to light mottled gray. females are much larger than the males with a much wider prothorax.
Dead Leaf 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 kept communally but it is preferred to house them separately
Temperature:
They prefer temps from 75-85 F but can go lower at night. However anything lower than 65F can be dangerous. A heat lamp or heating pad can be used to get the desired temp.
Humidity:
They prefer humidity from 70-80%. Daily misting 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 and blue/green bottle flies as they get larger. 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.
Adults can eat crickets or roaches however they don’t often climb up high enough to where the mantis is hiding and go uneaten. Most pet stores sell fruit flies and wax worms that can be grown into moths. Larger flies can found easily from online suppliers or sometimes from bait shops.