Mantids
Scientific name: Mantidae
Mantids
Scientific name: Mantidae
Photo By Liam O'Brien , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
Mantidae are often dubbed 'praying mantis' due to their prominent front legs folded as if in prayer. A common misconception is that the female routinely devours the male post-mating—a behavior known as sexual cannibalism. While this does occur, its frequency is exaggerated, often influenced by stress in laboratory settings, unlike their natural environment where it happens less commonly. These insects are formidable predators, adept at camouflage and equipped with sharp vision, enabling them to ambush unsuspecting prey. An incredible evolutionary adaptation is their ability to rotate their heads 180 degrees to scan their surroundings, a rare trait among insects.
Species of Mantids
Scientific Classification
AI entomologist in your pocket
Scan QR code to download
