Chinese Mantis

Tenodera sinensis

Tenodera • Mantidae

beginner

Overview

The largest mantis in North America (introduced from East Asia and now widespread) and one of the easiest to keep — a great first mantis. Long, stick-like body reaching ~4 inches, with a hearty appetite and forgiving care: room temperature (70-85°F), moderate humidity (50-65%), and a daily light misting. Give it a tall, ventilated enclosure with something to hang from at the top for molting. Eats almost any appropriately sized feeder. House individually; cannibalistic. 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

Sling:every 1-2 days

Juvenile:every 2-3 days

Adult:every 2-3 days

Prey size: crickets, flies, roaches, moths

Quick Stats

Type

arboreal

Adult Size

up to 4 inches (~10 cm)

Growth Rate

fast

Native Region

Native to East Asia; widely naturalized in North America

Temperament

hardy, bold feeding response

Behavior

Webbing—

BurrowingNo

Water DishOptional

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