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Texas Unicorn Mantis

Phyllovates chlorophaea

PhyllovatesMantidae

intermediate

Overview

A green-brown horned mantis native from Texas down into Central America. Species-specific captive data is limited, so this follows standard tropical-mantis husbandry: warmth around 70-85°F, moderate 50-65% humidity from regular misting, and a tall, well-ventilated enclosure with good molting surfaces. Keepers note it is slow to molt and prone to mismolts in the final instar if kept too dry, so keep humidity and molting perches dialed in. House individually; harmless to humans.

Husbandry Requirements

Temperature & Humidity

Temperature

70-85°F

Humidity

50-65%

Enclosure Sizes

Adult:≥3x body length tall, 2x wide; well-ventilated

Substrate

Type:coco fiber or paper towel; light misting for humidity/drinking
Depth:1-2 inches

Feeding Schedule

Adult:every 2-3 days

Prey size: flies, crickets, roaches

Quick Stats

Type

arboreal

Adult Size

up to ~3 inches

Growth Rate

medium

Native Region

Southern USA (Texas) to Central America

Temperament

cryptic horned mantis; slow to molt

Behavior

Webbing
BurrowingNo
Water DishOptional

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