Praying Mantis/ T. aridifolia sinensis
Order: Mantodea Family: Mantidae Genus: Tenodera
-Three distinct body regions: head, thorax (where the legs and wings are attached), abdomen.
-Part of the thorax is elongated to create a distinctive 'neck'.
-Front legs modified as raptorial graspers with strong spikes for grabbing and holding prey.
-Large compound eyes on the head which moves freely around (up to 180°) and three simple eyes between the compound eyes.
-Incomplete or simple metamorphosis
Special Adaptations:
-Praying mantids are often protectively colored to the plants they live on. This camouflage facilitates their predaceous behavior. Mantids are usually found on plants that have other insects around. Some mantids live in grass. Winged adults may be attracted to black lights in late summer and early fall.
-Predators: Many fish and predatory aquatic insects eat larvae and pupae. Bats, birds and spiders eat flying adults.
-The mantis is not only a study in patience but also speed. They lie in wait with the front legs in an upraised position. They intently watch and stalk their prey. It can grab its prey – like birds, snakes, small lizards and even rodents – in one swift move. They will eat each other. The adult female usually eats the male after or during mating
That photo is CRAZY!!
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