Each Species of Mantis has a unique ootheca shape, size and color. 

Ootheca Care

Once mated, the female mantis will lay her eggs in a foamy pouch called an ootheca. They can start laying within a day or a few weeks after breeding. The ootheca starts off soft when first laid and quickly hardens. These will protect the eggs from the environment until they’re ready to hatch.

Each Species has their own color, size and shape Ootheca. The amount of eggs in the ootheca also depends on the species and temperature. Some species will put hundreds of eggs into a single ootheca. All species will lay several ootheca while as an adult.

When the female is laying her eggs, do not disturb her for a few days. The ootheca will harden during this time and will be safe to remove.

Care for ootheca is the same for how you would care for the mantis of that species. They require the same temperatures and humidity levels they would naturally find in their environment. Substrate and misting the container can maintain the humidity levels.

Attach the ootheca to the top of a container that is around 6 inches tall and 4 inches wide to allow the nymphs enough space to hatch. You can use double sided tape cut to shape of the ootheca or thread to tie it in place. Be sure that there is enough ventilation too. 32oz insect cups works well for these. Include something inside for the newly hatched nymphs to climb on. 

Temperate species often require diapause, which is a pause in development due to colder climates, to hatch appropriately. These can be kept in 50-60F degrees for at least 8 weeks. Diapause allows species to survive through winter. Tropical species don’t have winter seasons so do not require diapause. Most will hatch within 4-6 weeks.

During hatching the nymphs will emerge from the central line and dangle from a small thread of silk as they expand and harden their exoskeleton. once harden they will scurry away and spread out. After this you can take them out and place them in the appropriate sized container. They can be fed within a day. be sure to use the appropriate sized prey for you nymphs. Most nymphs can be kept together until their second molt with little cannibalisms if given enough space and food.