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Spiny Flower Mantis

Pseudocreobotra ocellata

PseudocreobotraHymenopodidae

intermediate
Spiny Flower Mantis (Pseudocreobotra ocellata)
Bill Bouton, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Overview

An African flower mantis famous for the bright spiral 'eyes' on its wings, flashed in a startle display. Keep warm (80-85°F) with strong ventilation and only moderate 40-60% humidity — it is prone to mold/mis-molts if kept damp — plus a light daily mist. Prefers flying prey and strikes from ambush. Can sometimes be kept communally if very well fed, but solitary is safest. Harmless to humans.

Husbandry Requirements

Temperature & Humidity

Temperature

75-87°F

Humidity

40-60%

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

~1.5 inches

Growth Rate

medium

Native Region

East and Southern Africa

Temperament

sedentary ambush flower mimic; spiral eyespot display

Behavior

Webbing
BurrowingNo
Water DishOptional

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