Mantis is one of the most mysterious and interesting insects, known for its terrible habits. These amazing creatures are prone to cannibalism. Few people know that for them it is just one way of survival.
Where did the name of the mantis come from?
Initially, scientists attributed this insect to the cockroach family. Some similar elements in the structure of the body and wings were related with its representatives. However, despite the similarities, this creature clearly differed from cockroaches in its specific behavior and appearance. Therefore, he was identified in a separate detachment of mantis, in which there are about 2500 species.
The name "praying mantis" was given to the insect in 1758 by the Swedish scientist Karl Liney. He saw that this strange creature was sitting in ambush, waiting for his victim, in a very strange pose. She resembled the pose of a praying person. Therefore, the naturalist called the insect the Latin term "Mantis religiosa", which means "religious priest." This name was translated into Russian as “praying mantis”.
But not in all countries this creature was given such a harmonious name. For example, in Spain it is called only Caballito del Diablo, that is, the Devil's Horse. Obviously, the mantis was so called because of its creepy behavior.
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In general, a mantis is a very symbolic insect. It is very often mentioned in myths and legends of different peoples of the world. In ancient Chinese legends, the mantis personified greed and stubbornness. The Greeks, by contrast, considered him a messenger of spring. They also believed that this unusual creature was able to predict the weather.
What does a mantis look like?
Mantis is one of the largest insects. Its length is 10-17 centimeters, with females being much larger than males. The creature's body color is most often either faded yellow or green. But it always depends on the habitat of the insect, as well as on the time of year. Because the mantis has an amazing ability to completely merge with the environment. He knows how to mimic, that is, the color of his body becomes completely indistinguishable from the color of grass, leaves and branches.
In addition to the wonderful disguise, the mantis also has other devices for successful hunting. He is the only living creature that can turn his triangular head through 360 degrees. So, despite the fact that his eyes are at a great distance from each other, he is able to quickly notice his prey. Another three additional eyes, which are located above the base of the mustache, help him in this. Mantis also have an incredibly sharp ear. Although they only have one ear.
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Almost all species of these insects have wings. The only exception is the earthen mantis, which does not have them. Only males use wings as intended, occasionally flying from branch to branch. Females are very difficult to fly because of their sufficiently large weight.
The forelimbs of the insect are very strong and tenacious. They are equipped with sharp spikes that allow him to deftly grab and hold the victim. The same spikes are also present on the hind legs. Having caught prey, the mantis first clamps it between the shin and thigh, and only then proceeds to dinner.
What does a mantis eat?
The diet of the mantis includes insects: mosquitoes, flies, bugs, bees. If he is very hungry, he can satisfy his hunger even with small lizards, frogs, birds and some rodents. Females sometimes eat males, even before mating. Therefore, males have to perform a special “dance” so that the females can distinguish them from potential victims and thus remain alive.
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How does a mantis breed?
The mating season for mantis lasts from late summer to early fall. Males themselves explore the territory in search of a potential partner. Only in some species of these insects mating ends extremely deplorably. After intercourse, the female bites off the male’s head. But she does this only because he spends too much effort and becomes more incapacitated. He will die in any case, and the female needs a lot of strength to bear healthy offspring. So in some cases, the male even feeds his partner himself voluntarily.
The female lays 10 to 400 eggs. The young can hatch in a few weeks, or maybe six months later. They grow pretty fast. After only 4-8 links, the small larva turns into an adult mantis.
The lifespan of these creatures is short - only 6 months. But nothing threatens their existence. The mantis population is growing rapidly, even though they are often caught for sale. Among fans of exotic insects, there are those who are ready to keep one of them at home as a pet and even create all the necessary conditions for him to live.