The Chinese mantis is originally native to Asia and the nearby islands. However, they were accidentally introduced to Mt. Airy, a neighborhood in Philadelphia, United States. From there they spread throughout the eastern half of the United States. They are now considered an invasive species. These mantids face the same threats that other species of mantids face, that of habitat loss and destruction. They are also persecuted for being an aggressive insect and their oothecae (egg cases) are frequently destroyed to prevent their spread. Climate change can bring about harsh winters that can kill juveniles. They also are parasitized by the horsehair worm, which kills the host upon exiting. However, these insects are abundant and invasive. Therefore, they are not evaluated by the IUCN.
First the Stats…
Scientific name: Tenodera sinensis
Weight: Up to .18 ounce
Length: Up to 5 inches
Lifespan: Up to 1 year
Now on to the Facts!
1.) Hornets, spiders, grasshoppers, katydids, small reptiles, amphibians, and even hummingbirds are all preyed upon.
2.) In turn they are preyed on by birds, reptiles, amphibians, Asian giant hornets, assassin bugs, jumping spiders (that prey on the nymphs), other mantis species, and cannibalistic females.
3.) Unfortunately, this species has been documented eating the larvae of monarch butterflies, while discarding the entrails.
4.) It has been stated that these mantids lack effectiveness as a pest management agent. Seeing as they are ambush predators, they attack anything within reach that they feel they can subdue, but they don’t actively hunt for insect pests.
5.) Since they are non-selective predators, they have the ability to alter food webs and affect the dynamics of local insect populations.
But wait, there’s more on the Chinese mantis!
6.) These critters are commonly kept by mantis enthusiasts and egg cases can be purchased from local nurseries in both Canada and the United States.
7.) The oothecae can house up to 300 eggs.
Did you know…?
Cannibalism takes place in up to 50% of matings.
8.) There are 2 practiced martial arts disciplines that duplicate the moves of the Chinese mantis.
9.) These, like other mantids, are diurnal (active during the day).
10.) Mantises can turn their heads up to 180º.
Now a Short Chinese Mantis Video!
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Some source material acquired from: Wikipedia & IUCN
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