The conehead mantis is a perfect example of “out of this world” when it comes to extraterrestrial-like animals. We all know what mantises look like, but this one definitely stands out, and it makes you want to know everything about it. If you are as curious as I was the first time I came across a photo of a conehead mantis, you are not alone. Let’s see if their information is as interesting as they look!
1Appearance
A conehead mantis has a large yet thin body that carries a large pair of wings it uses for flight. However, its most noticeable feature which also gives it its name is the cone-shaped structure on its head. The head of this mantis has a conical shape along with two large eyes, giving it an alien-like appearance almost. Oh, and that head, can be turned 180 degrees to scan the surroundings. As for colors, they serve the purpose of camouflaging with their surroundings. Depending on the region it is from, the colors come in various shades of brown, green, pink, and yellow. The common colors of the conehead mantises are green and pink, along with various shades of brown. Some of them have very bold wing colors, ranging from brown and gray to bright green. A conehead mantis can make their wings resemble horns to intimidate potential predators when threatened.
Just like other mantis species out there, female conehead mantises have a greater length than males. Females can grow as long as 10 centimeters, while males don’t exceed 7.6 centimeters long, and they are also thinner. Males have round bodies, and females’ bodies are more elongated. Regardless of size, these mantises have long front legs that are covered in spines that they use for defense. Apart from the size, their appearances are also slightly different as well. If you look at the antennae, males have the “feather-type” antennae, while females have the normal-looking ones. Both males and females use their antennae to detect movement and direct their prey to them.
2Feeding & Habitats
Beauty aside, conehead mantises are carnivores, and these ambush predators will pound on anything they can attack, big and small. From flies and small spiders to larger insects like grasshoppers and other mantises, they eat them all. If they are unfortunate enough to cross paths with conehead mantises, they will become dinner. They are very patient and stealthy, they use four legs to hold the position whilst the front legs are held up folded. Once they detect prey, they will grab it from the air, impaling it onto the serrations of the forelimbs. That way, the prey cannot escape, and the elegant mantis will start eating the meal; head and neck first.
Conehead mantis is native to the Mediterranean Region, with a wide range across Asia and Europe as well. Across the many countries where they live, conehead mantises prefer dry and warm environments. They inhabit arid and open habitats. These mantises like hiding in dry grass, perennial herbs and scrubs, and vegetation where they can effortlessly camouflage in. Conehead mantises are solitary, and they are popular pets due to their unique appearance, despite their short lifespan.
Related Post: Spike Magician Facts
