ANIMAL FACTS

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Orchid Mantis (Hymenopus coronatus)

The orchid mantis is one of the most visually stunning invertebrates on the planet. Although the species does not necessarily live on orchids, they have evolved to mimic flower petals in diverse combinations of white and pink. H. coronatus comes from the tropical climates of Malaysia where it will hide in ambush on white flowers, before striking at unsuspecting prey looking to feed on the flowers nectar.

The colouration of an orchid mantis can vary massively throughout the mantis’ life. First instars are usually dark orange with black legs, nymphs are white with bright accents of pink and then after each moult the mantis will gradually change.

Female H. coronatus grow to almost triple the size of the males and at a much slower rate. Therefore, breeding this species in captivity requires sexspecific heating and feeding patterns to inhibit the growth of the male. Famously, if the keeper introduces the male to the female while she’s hungry, she will likely eat him in an instance. In fact, giving the female something to eat while mating occurs is advisable to keep her occupied while the mating (which can take several hours) occurs.