Praying mantis - beginner questions
Welcome to our Beginner's FAQ for Praying Mantis Care! Whether you're just starting out or looking to expand your knowledge, this FAQ list provides essential information to ensure the well-being of your mantis companions.
Should I offer water to my mantis?
Yes, for most species, water needs vary and depend on the natural habitat of your mantis. Generally, for non-African species, offering a few drops every few days is a good approach. African species prefer drier conditions, yet they still benefit from occasional light misting (once a week). The easiest method is misting the area directly in front of the praying mantis. You can also provide water droplets from clean fingertips, ensuring hands are free of cosmetics or chemicals. Avoid using cotton sticks to prevent entanglement or bacterial spread if reused. Be cautious with high humidity levels in the terrarium, as they can lead to unexpected losses.
Can mantis regrow leg?
If it’s a young nymph with several molts ahead, there’s a good chance of full recovery, though the new leg may be slightly smaller. Adult mantises cannot regrow legs.
Do mantises have small black pupils in their eyes?
No, the perceived pupils in a mantis’s eyes aren’t real pupils. This happens because the ommatidia one sees “head-on” absorb the incoming light, whereas those on the sides reflect it.
Do females always eat males?
No, females don’t always eat males. Breeders can take precautions, like feeding the female while keeping an eye on the male and protecting him with a brush if necessary. Not all species are cannibalistic, but most of them are. Unfortunately drama happens sometimes.
How to determine gender of mantis nymph?
If the nymph is small, you can use a magnifying glass to count the segments of its abdomen. Typically, females have 6 segments, while males have 8.
