Giant Asian Shield Mantis
Rhombodera extensicollis also called the Giant Asian Shield Mantis is a large robust species with a slim shield. Adults can reach up to 4 inches long with bright green coloration. They have a big appetite and will eat anything they can catch. They originate from Thailand and India.
Giant shield 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 is VERY cannibalistic and should be house separately
Temperature:
They prefer temps from 70-85 F but can go lower at night. A heat lamp or heating pad can be used to get the desired temp
Humidity:
They prefer humidity 50-70% or higher. 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 but will eat most feeders. As small 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. They can eat crickets or roaches as they grow. Most pet stores sell fruit flies, crickets, roaches and wax worms that can be grown into moths. Larger flies can found easily from online suppliers or sometimes from bait shops.