Description
Giant Asian Mantis – Hierodula membranacea
Hierodula membranacea is a large praying mantis, sharing its common name giant Asian mantis with other large members of genus Hierodula: of which it is the type species. Its colours vary from green to yellow-green, or even brown to reddish-brown, similar to those of the giant Indian mantis and the giant Malaysian mantis. As the name suggests, it originates from south-eastern Asia and is among the largest of mantises. Male and female adults reach around 7–9 centimetres (2.8–3.5 in), excluding extended forelegs. It is a cannibalistic species, with the females sometimes eating the males after mating.
Hierodula membranacea inhabits in shrubs and tree areas. It lives in hot and humid climates of temperatures of 22 to 30 °C (72 to 86 °F) with a humidity of 60% to 70%.
As with other mantis species, H. membranacea is particularly cannibalistic, which is thought to increase female fecundity. These huge insects can also tackle highly predatory hornets such as the Asian Giant hornet.
ref: Wikipedia
Some widespread varieties of the giant Asian mantis species are:
- Hierodula Membranacea
- Hierodula Patellifera
- Titanodula Grandis
Giant Asian Mantis, or more scientifically Hierodula membranacea, is one of the most common mantis pets. Its large size and the relative easiness of keeping this species contributes to its popularity. Sometimes this species is incorrectly referred to as Hierodula grandis.
