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Spiny flower mantis (Pseudocreobotra wahlbergii)
Written by: Unknown
Difficulty: Intermediate
Size: 1.4-1.75 (3.5-4.45cm)
Humidity: 45-65%
Temperature: 75-85°F (24-29°C).
Feeding: Fairly aggressive hunters and unafraid of larger prey.
What to feed: i1 nymphs: Fruit flies (D. melanogaster) i2-i4 nymphs: Fruit flies (D. hydei) i5-Adult: House flies, green/bluebottle flies, moths, small roaches
Enclosure: A 32oz deli cup can be used for the mantis’ entire lifespan, however it’s very important to cut and mesh a ventilation hole in the side of the cup for cross ventilation. The size of the hole should be determined by the relative humidity (RH) of the home so as to maintain the correct humidity inside the enclosure. Example: the lower the RH, the smaller the hole, and vice versa. It’s also very important to keep their enclosure clean as they are prone to infections.
Other Info: Again, this species is prone to infections. A heat lamp/emitter is usually required as room temperature can be too cold for them. For sexing, it’s easiest to look at their abdomen from and almost side-on position. Females will have 5 spikes running down the center of their abdomen, while males will have 6. These spikes are easiest to spot starting as early as i3