Species · GBIF taxon 1404875
African Mantis
Sphodromantis lineolaAlso known as African Praying Mantis, Giant African Mantis, Lineola Mantis
African mantises are formidable ambush predators that blend seamlessly into foliage, waiting to snatch passing insects with lightning-fast strikes of their spiked forelegs. Highly adaptable, they range in color from bright green to dull brown, with some brown individuals displaying striking purple eyes. Females are particularly robust, occasionally taking down small lizards or frogs in addition to their usual insect diet.
PredatoryCamouflagedInvertebrate
Licensed referenceMintz_l / Public domain · cc0
- diet
- Carnivorous (primarily insects, spiders, and occasionally small vertebrates)
- family
- Mantidae
- threats
- Pesticide use, habitat destruction, and localized over-collection for the pet trade
- life Span
- 10 to 12 months
NE
Capable of a pinch or defensive bite if handled roughly; handle gently or observe from a distance.
Large individuals possess strong raptorial forelegs and mandibles that can deliver a sharp pinch or bite if they feel threatened.
Avoid pinching or grabbing the thorax; let the insect walk onto your hand voluntarily.- Approaching: Move slowly to avoid triggering their defensive display, where they flare their wings and raise their forelegs.
- Handling: Allow the mantis to crawl onto an outstretched hand rather than grabbing it, which prevents defensive pinches.