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 separated at L3

Temperature:

They prefer temps from 75-86 F but can go lower at night. However anything lower than 70 can be dangerous. A heat lamp or heating pad can be used to get the desired temp. Extended temperatures below 75F can cause illness for this species. 

Humidity:

They can have a large range but prefer humidity from 60%-90%. 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. 

Breeding: 


Spiny flower mantis are more difficult to breed due to their cabalistic nature. When attempting to pair them, it’s important to provide a large enough cage with lots of sticks and branches so the male can jump off and out of range of the female. It is also advised to feed the female before introducing the male.