Common name(s): Spiny Flower Mantis, #9 Mantis
Difficulty: Intermediate
Size: males up to 1.75” (4.5cm); females up to 2” (5cm)
Lifespan: males up to 1 year; females up to 1.5 years
Recommended enclosure size by instar:
– 1i-3i: 2oz deli cup (2×2″/5×5cm)
– 4i-6i: 5.5/8oz deli cup (3×3″/8×8cm)
– 7i-adult: 32oz deli cup or similar sized enclosure (4.5×6″/12×15cm)
Humidity: 40-60%, mist lightly every other day or so for hydration
Temperature: 70-85°F (21-30°C)
Feeding:
– 1i-2i: D. melanogaster or D. hydei fruit flies
– 3i-5i: D. hydei fruit flies, house flies, green bottle flies, small roaches, small crickets
– 6i-adult: house flies, blue bottle flies, small/medium roaches, small/medium crickets, mealworms (as treats only), wax worms/moths
Breeding:
Females are ready to breed in around 3 weeks and males in 2 weeks. Females tend to be aggressive and males very timid so it can take a few attempts to breed. Ensure the female is very well fed before attempting.
Females lay up to 6 ooths starting around 4-5 weeks after the last molt. They hatch around 4-5 weeks after being laid when kept at the same parameters as mantises. They hatch up to 70 nymphs each.
Notes: These mantises are very sensitive to low ventilation. Cross ventilation is a must with them. If using deli cups, cut a hole in the side and cover with mesh, as well as having a mesh lid. Ensure that humidity and stagnant air does not build up.
Other Resources:
Mantids & More – Lexicon – Pseudocreobotra wahlbergii
Panterra Pets – Pseudocreobotra wahlbergii