Home/Care Guides/Giant African Mantis

Giant African Mantis

Sphodromantis viridis

SphodromantisMantidae

beginner
Giant African Mantis (Sphodromantis viridis)
Adamantios, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Overview

A classic beginner mantis — large, green, bold, and tolerant of a range of conditions (68-85°F, moderate 50-70% humidity). A tall, ventilated enclosure with perches plus light daily-ish misting for drinking and clean molts is all it needs. Aggressive feeder. House individually; harmless to humans.

Husbandry Requirements

Temperature & Humidity

Temperature

72-85°F

Humidity

50-70%

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 4 inches

Growth Rate

fast

Native Region

Africa, Middle East

Temperament

bold, hardy

Behavior

Webbing
BurrowingNo
Water DishOptional

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