Description
Budwing mantis, or more specifically Parasphendale affinis, is a popular species of praying mantis to keep as a pet. Of the Parasphendale genus, two species are being kept in captivity: Parasphendale affinis and Parasphendale argrionina. The difference between the species is hard to see.
In nature, Parapshendale sp. occurs in East Africa (Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia and Tanzania). Many people in Europe, Japan and the US keep this mantis species as a pet.
Budwing Mantis Parasphendale affinis, given the common name ‘budwing mantis’ for its vestigial wings (present in adult females). Females are incapable of flight.
Females can reach up to 6-8cm in length. Males grow up to ~3-5cm in length.
Reference: Wikipedia
Parasphendale affinis, common name budwing mantis, is a species of praying mantis. It is named for the female’s short wings and can grow to 4 inches long and have a low mortality rate as nymphs. They originate from Kenya and are a mottled brown and reddish pink colour. They have a voracious appetite, and have been known to gorge themselves to the point of illness when kept in captivity with an unlimited food source. Though they can be kept in captivity, due to their level of activity they require more space than other mantis species.
