Giant Dead Leaf Mantis

Deroplatys desiccata

MantisbeginnerHarmless

No venom, no sting

Mantises are harmless to humans. They have no venom or sting — the worst they can do is grip with their spined forelegs or deliver a startling but harmless nip.

About

A superb leaf-mimic and a keeper favorite. Care is standard mantis care with a touch more humidity (60-80%) — keep it on the higher end around molts, since this species is prone to stuck molts when too dry. Tall enclosure (3x body length), light daily misting, appropriately sized live prey. Harmless to humans.

Taxonomy

FamilyDeroplatyidae

GenusDeroplatys

Native regionSoutheast Asia (Malaysia, Borneo, Sumatra)

TypeArboreal

Temperamentshy, threat-display when disturbed

Size & growth

Adult size3-3.5 inches

Growth ratemedium

Climate

Temperature75–86 °F

Humidity60–80%

Enclosure

Adult size8x8x12 inches (tall)

Substratecoco fiber, mist daily

Substrate depth1-2 inches

Water dishOptional

Feeding

Feeding modePredator (live prey)

Prey sizeflies, crickets, roaches

Adult cadenceevery 2-3 days

Times kept: 0