Ghost Mantis

Phyllocrania paradoxa

MantisbeginnerHarmlessCommunal OK

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 small, leaf-mimicking mantis and a favorite first species — uniquely tolerant of light communal keeping when well-fed. Otherwise standard mantis care: tall enclosure, light misting, appropriately small live prey.

Taxonomy

FamilyEmpusidae

GenusPhyllocrania

Native regionAfrica, Madagascar

TypeArboreal

Temperamentshy

Size & growth

Adult size1.8-2 inches

Growth ratemedium

Climate

Temperature72–85 °F

Humidity50–65%

Enclosure

Adult size5x5x8 inches

Substratecoco fiber, light mist

Substrate depth1 inch

Water dishOptional

Feeding

Feeding modePredator (live prey)

Prey sizefruit flies (nymphs) to small flies/crickets (adults)

Adult cadenceevery 2-3 days

Times kept: 0 · Unverified community entry