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Timor shield mantis

Rhombodera kirbyi

Rhombodera • Mantidae

intermediate

Overview

Rhombodera kirbyi is a large shield mantis, with females reaching about 10 cm. The published locality is Timor, though it is sold in the hobby as the PNG shield mantis, so treat its origin as uncertain. Care information for this exact species is mostly from vendors and from keepers of related Rhombodera, so use it as a starting point. One seller recommends 75 to 85 F, 60 to 80 percent humidity, misting three to four times a week, and a large ventilated enclosure with plenty of vertical room to hang for molts. Forum keepers of the genus say a terrarium suits them better than mesh because they want extra humidity, and that a small heat lamp helps in a cool house. Offer flying insects such as house flies, bluebottles and moths sized to the mantis. The seller rates it intermediate, while Wikipedia says low requirements, so that rating is contested.

Husbandry Requirements

Temperature & Humidity

Temperature

75-85°F

Humidity

60-80%

Enclosure Sizes

Adult:Large ventilated enclosure with vertical space for molting

Substrate

Type:—
Depth:—

Feeding Schedule

Adult:—

Prey size: Flying insects sized to the mantis: house flies, blue bottle flies, moths

Quick Stats

Type

Arboreal

Adult Size

Female to ~10 cm, male 8-8.5 cm

Growth Rate

—

Native Region

Timor (per Wikipedia); sold in the hobby as Papua New Guinea shield mantis

Temperament

—

Behavior

WebbingNone
BurrowingYes
Water DishOptional

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Timor shield mantis Care Guide | Appalachian Tarantulas | Appalachian Tarantulas