| Mantodea ~ Mantids |
|
This group is easy to distinguish because of generally large size and the manner in which they hold their first legs. Some species are very slender, though, and can be mistaken for stick insects.
Adults and nymphs are predatory and have chewing mouthparts. Mantids have four wings, but they are often reduced in some species, females in particular. These insects develop through simple, or incomplete, metamorphosis: the nymphs resemble adults and may molt up to nine times before reaching maturity. Adults are rarely found with nymphs, and would tend to eat them if given the chance. Size ranges from medium to very large. Except for very young nymphs, our few species are relatively easy to identify.
|
 Mantidae [mantids] |