Wandering Violin Mantis
Gongylus gongylodes or the Wandering Violin Mantis is an amazing species of mantis that has long appendages to mimic leaves and sticks. they originate from India and Sri Lanka. They get their name from the unique shape of their head and neck that resembles the top of a violin. They are another species that is not very easy to keep but are well worth it.
Wandering Violin 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
They are not the best climbers and require plenty of branches, silk or real plants or even a mesh cage.
This species can be kept communally
Temperature:
The Ideal temperature is 95F but can range from 86-100. A heat lamp or heating pad can be used to get the desired temp.
Humidity:
They don’t need as high of humidity levels and can be misted every 3-7 days depending on if you use a mesh or acrylic cage. 40-50% is ideal
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. Feeding crickets or other crawling insects can result in health problems. They can be a bit picky when eating so offering a variety of flying insects is best. 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. 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.