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Narrow-winged mantis

Narrow-winged mantis

Tenodera angustipennis

A species of Tenodera, Also known as Japanese mantis

The narrow-winged mantis (Tenodera angustipennis) is a large green mantis that's sometimes kept as a pet. People have been known to raise these bugs starting with an egg case, which is known as the ootheca. The adults and nymphs both can feed primarily on fruit flies. Too dry is dangerous for them, so they need to be frequently misted with water as pets.

General Info About Narrow-winged mantis
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Attributes of Narrow-winged mantis
Colors
Brown
Green
Habitat
shrub; herb; field margin
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Narrow-winged mantis is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
The Narrow-winged mantis typically preys on other arthropods and does not directly affect plants.
Biting animal or pet
Yes
Mouthparts Type
Chewing mouthparts
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Appearance of Narrow-winged mantis
Adults and nymphs Size: Males 7 - 8 cm, females 7 - 9 cm in length. Tenodera angustipennis are often brown or green. Tenodera angustipennis proportionately have a more elongate pronotum and shorter, narrower tegmina and wings than Tenodera sinensis. Tenodera angustipennis have a brown, patterned streak on each of their transparent hind wings, while T. sinensis have hind wings that are completely patterned and brown.
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How to Identify Narrow-winged mantis?

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Life Cycle of Narrow-winged mantis
Egg The egg stage for narrow-winged mantis involves a cluster of eggs laid in a secure, protective case called an ootheca. These eggs are generally affixed to a substrate and exhibit camouflage, aiding in their protection from predators until hatching.
Nymph Upon hatching, nymphs resemble miniature adults but lack fully developed wings and reproductive organs. These nymphs undergo several molts, increasing in size and gradually developing adult features with each subsequent molt while sustaining on smaller prey items.
Adult Emerging from the final molt, the adult narrow-winged mantis presents developed wings and functional reproductive organs. As the exoskeleton hardens post-molt, the insect gains full mobility and begins its life stage focused on mating, feeding, and, for females, laying ootheca.
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Adult Size of Narrow-winged mantis
7 - 9 cm
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Predators of Narrow-winged mantis Larvae
Frogs, toads, birds, jumping spiders, other mantises, ants
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Predators of Adult Narrow-winged mantis
Bats, birds, reptiles, larger mantids, rodents, spiders
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Interesting Facts About Narrow-winged mantis
The narrow-winged mantis species can turn its head nearly 180 degrees, allowing it to have a broad field of vision to spot prey and predators alike.
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Scientific Classification of Narrow-winged mantis
Class
Bugs
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Order
Mantids
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Family
Mantids
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Tips for Finding Narrow-winged mantis
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Youth Habitat of Narrow-winged mantis
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Habitat Preferences of Narrow-winged mantis Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of narrow-winged mantis are typically found attached to twigs or plant stems in well-protected oothecae. Searching for their nymphs requires examining under leaves and on branches in vegetation-rich areas, as they prefer such locations for their early developmental stages due to the abundance of prey and cover. Adult narrow-winged mantis are prone to inhabit tall grasses, shrubs, and trees, often camouflaging effectively against predators and while hunting. To observe adults, one should carefully inspect these areas, paying particular attention to their characteristic shapes and subtle movements.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Narrow-winged mantis
The best time to find narrow-winged mantis is usually during the day, as they are diurnal predators that rely on their vision to hunt prey. Early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are milder might be particularly effective times for spotting them.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Narrow-winged mantis
Narrow-winged mantis are less active during cold weather; therefore, warm and sunny days are preferable for locating these creatures. They may be easier to spot when they bask in the sun to raise their body temperature.
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How and Where Can You Find Narrow-winged mantis at Different Life Stages
Egg Narrow-winged mantis eggs are often laid in a protective case called an ootheca that is typically attached to vegetation or under surfaces. To find narrow-winged mantis eggs, search on plant stems, undersides of leaves, and tree bark.
Nymph Narrow-winged mantis nymphs resemble miniature adults without fully developed wings. They can be found in grassy areas, on shrubs, or amongst foliage where they hunt smaller insects. Carefully inspect the plants while trying not to disturb the vegetation too much.
Adult To find adult narrow-winged mantis, look for them on taller plants, as they are more likely to be stalking prey or awaiting a mate. Adults are well-camouflaged, so search patiently and focus on their characteristic shapes and outlines against the plant leaves and stems.
Are Narrow-winged mantis harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Narrow-winged mantis
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Stage
Adults, Nymphs
Purpose
Feed Itself
Narrow-winged mantis employs an ambush strategy to capture prey, utilizing its cryptic coloration to blend into the surroundings. It remains motionless and waits for unsuspecting prey, striking with astonishing speed. Its forelegs are equipped with spikes for snagging and holding onto prey as it devours them alive. Narrow-winged mantis feeds to sustain itself, showcasing nature's raw predatory efficiency.
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