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Iridescent bark mantis

Iridescent bark mantis

Metallyticus splendidus

A species of Metallyticus

M. splendidus was originally described by J. O. Westwood in 1835 as having a short, oval-shaped body, a blunt head, thick anterior femora, round eyes, and simple antennae. In the same work, Westwood described the genus Metallyticus as distinct from other mantis genera by the iridescent color, short pronotum, and the exposed tip of the abdomen when wings are closed. Ermanno Giglio-Tos added additional descriptions of M. splendidus in 1927, noting the presence of yellow marks on the legs and vertex, and providing a description of the smoky, blackish wings. Males and females of M. splendidus differ in coloration (males are blue-violet and females are golden-green) and size (females are around 31 millimetres (1.2 in) long whiles males measure 21 millimetres (0.83 in)). M. splendidus has been described as a basal mantis, though some systematists argue that the application of this term to extant taxa can be misleading. Several morphological traits of M. splendidus are plesiomorphic, such as its short prothorax and lack of discoidal spines. M. splendidus also have less ventral cervical sclerites than other species in their genus. Other traits of M. splendidus and other Metallyticus species are autapomorphic, including the metallic coloration and large outer spine on the front femur. M. splendidus has been represented in morphological and molecular phylogenies, which have shown it to be nested within the monophyletic family Metallycidae, though the position of this family with respect to other mantis lineages remains in question.

General Info About Iridescent bark mantis
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Attributes of Iridescent bark mantis
Colors
Green
Red
Blue
Habitat
dead tree
Adult Food Sources
Larger insects, including flies, crickets, moths, and possibly other smaller mantises
Larva Food Source
Smaller insects, such as fruit flies (drosophilidae), aphids, and other small arthropods
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Chewing mouthparts
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Species Status of Iridescent bark mantis
Rare
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Predators of Iridescent bark mantis Larvae
Birds, arachnids, rodents, larger insects
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Predators of Adult Iridescent bark mantis
Bats, birds, spiders, rodents, frogs
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Interesting Facts About Iridescent bark mantis
Iridescent bark mantis has metallic iridescence, which allows it to reflect sunlight in vivid colors, a dazzling trait not common in its order.
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Scientific Classification of Iridescent bark mantis
Tips for Finding Iridescent bark mantis
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Youth Habitat of Iridescent bark mantis
Tropical Rainforests
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Habitat Preferences of Iridescent bark mantis Through Different Life Stages
The iridescent bark mantis eggs are typically deposited in oothecae that are often attached to tree trunks, branches, or under leaves in tropical rainforests. Nymphs, upon hatching, are found in similar arboreal habitats where they can remain camouflaged among foliage and bark. Searching for these immature stages involves carefully inspecting tree trunks and the undersides of leaves. Adult iridescent bark mantis are also tree dwellers, preferring dense, humid environments where they can effectively hunt and mate. To find adults, one should explore the forest canopy at night when they are most active. Spotting an adult iridescent bark mantis requires a keen eye, as they are well-camouflaged predators, blending with their woodland surroundings.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Iridescent bark mantis
The suitable time to find adult iridescent bark mantis is generally during the late afternoon and early evening hours when they become more active to hunt.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Iridescent bark mantis
The suitable weather to find iridescent bark mantis is typically warm and humid conditions which promote the activity of their prey, consequently increasing the likelihood of observing iridescent bark mantis while it hunts.
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How and Where Can You Find Iridescent bark mantis at Different Life Stages
Nymph Adult iridescent bark mantis are more conspicuous and can be observed hunting for prey. To find adult iridescent bark mantis, visit tropical forested areas during the late afternoon and observe the foliage for their characteristic silhouette and reflective bodies. Carefully examine tree trunks, branches, and leaves where they may be waiting to ambush prey. Approach slowly and quietly to avoid startling them.
Are Iridescent bark mantis harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Iridescent bark mantis
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Stage
Adults, Nymphs
Diets
Termites, Flying Insects
Iridescent bark mantis is a unique predator that actively hunts down its prey, primarily termites and other flying insects. It utilizes its strikingly colored and metallic appearance to camouflage among foliage, where it awaits its prey. Unlike many other predators, iridescent bark mantis engages in aggressive and rapid action to capture and consume its prey, making it a fascinating example of predation in the insect world.
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