Have you ever seen a bug that looks like a dried-out leaf?
The Ghost Mantis (Phyllocrania paradoxa) is one of the most fascinating and unique praying mantises you will ever see. This mantis is a favorite for both beginner and intermediate hobbyists. Its camouflage looks like leaves, and it is very hardy.
What makes the Ghost Mantis special? It’s not just its stunning appearance.
It is also low-maintenance and fascinating to watch. This mantis will never tire of watching it. You can see it swaying like a leaf on the wind or waiting patiently to ambush its prey.
This guide will help you learn how to care for ghost mantis. It covers their lifespan, size, and how to set up their home. You will also find tips to keep them happy. The African Ghost Mantis will make a great addition to any collection.
What is a Ghost Mantis?
Species Overview
You may have seen a ghost mantis, also known as Phyllocrania paradoxa. These fascinating mantids are native to Africa, Madagascar and thrive in dry forests and shrublands. People also call these mantids the African Ghost Mantis or the Leaf Mantis.
The delicate, tattered body of the ghost mantis perfectly mimics dried leaves. This clever camouflage keeps them safe from predators and allows them to ambush unknowing prey. Hobbyists find ghost mantises appealing because of their unique appearance and many other reasons.
Behaviour & Temperament
The Ghost Mantises are among the calmest and relaxed mantids that you will encounter. These mantids are quiet observers. They often remain completely still while blending in with their surroundings. This species is great for those who enjoy watching animals behave naturally.
They are still very shy. They’re not aggressive towards humans, but they will raise their front paws in a defensive posture if they feel threatened.
Can Ghost Mantises live together?
It’s an often asked question. The answer is most of the time no. It’s possible to house very young ghost nymphs in communal housing, but it is a risk.
As they grow, cannibalism becomes more serious. If you do decide to try this, be sure that there is enough space, hiding places, and food. But, honestly? It is safer to separate them when they reach maturity.
Ghost Mantis Lifespan – How Long Do Ghost Mantises Live?
The average Ghost Mantis life expectancy is between 8-12 months. However, this depends on several factors. The females tend to have a longer lifespan than the males.
Male Vs Female Lifespan
Males are fast-growing but live for about 8 to 9 months following their last moult.
Females live 10-12 months, and some, with excellent care, can live longer.
The Key Factors that Affect Lifespan
Temperature
Maintain a constant temperature of between 75-85°F (24-29degC) using this digital thermometer. Temperature spikes or sudden temperature drops can stress them and reduce their lifespan.
Diet:
Provide a variety of gut-loaded feeder insects such as fruit flies and crickets. A balanced diet helps them to stay strong and promotes healthy moulting.
Quality of enclosure:
A good Ghost Mantis enclosure that has 40%-60% humidity and plenty of climbing branches makes a big difference. They feel more secure in a clean and stable environment.
Chart Suggestion: A Visual showing the difference in lifespan between male and female Ghost mantises.
Ghost Mantis size – How big do ghost Mantises get?
The males of ghost mantises tend to be larger than the females.
Male vs Female Size
Female adults: around 2 to 2.5 inches larger and more robust.
Males of adult size: Around 1.5-2 inches with longer wings and a slimmer body.
Can Ghost Mantises Fly?
Yes, but it is only possible for males. Males can fly short distances, particularly during mating. Females have smaller wings and do not fly.
Image Suggestion: A side-by-side comparison between a juvenile and an adult ghost mantis.
Ghost Mantis Enclosure: Building the Ideal Habitat
Enclosure Size & Setup
The enclosure is not just a box, but the mantis’ entire world. The enclosure should have a minimum of 3x mantis length in height, and twice its length in width. A 8x8x12 inches enclosure (20 x20x30cm) setup will work perfectly for a fully-grown adult ghost-mantis. They must have vertical space because when moulting, they must be able to hang upside-down.
If you prefer acrylic, this clear insect terrarium is another excellent option. Vertical space is essential because when molting, your mantis must be able to hang upside-down safely.
Ventilation
Ventilation is very important. To prevent mold, keep air fresh, choose an enclosure, use mesh panels or cross-ventilated designs.
Substrate & Decor
Substrate
Coconut fibre or sphagnum is great for maintaining humidity.
Decor
Give your mantis options for climbing and hiding by adding branches, twigs and artificial or live plants.
Temperature, Humidity and Lighting
Temperature:
Stay within the range of (75-85degF, 24-29degC). Avoid placing enclosures in drafty areas or direct sunlight. Sudden temperature changes can stress your mantis. So monitor condition with digital thermometer
Humidity:
Aim for 40-60%. To avoid mold, mist the enclosure a few times per week using mist spray bottle
Lighting:
Ghost mantises don’t need UVB. You can use a simple 12-hour light/12-hour dark cycle to keep them in a natural rhythm.
Ghost Mantis Diet: What do ghost Mantises eat?
Ghost Mantis Care is all about diet. It’s important to keep these little predators happy and healthy.
Ghost mantises, ambush hunters, are by nature. They will sit still and wait until the right moment to strike. Due to this instinct, they need a constant supply of feeder insects. Dead prey won’t work.
Food by Life Stage
Nymphs:
Introduce your young ghost mantises to soft-bodied, small prey such as fruit flies and pinhead crickets. They are easy to catch and eat.
Juveniles :
As the juveniles grow, they will take on larger prey, such as small moths and houseflies.
Adults
A fully grown ghost mantis can easily handle larger crickets, roaches and moths.
Feeding Frequency
Nymphs :
Every 2 – 3 days. They are growing quickly and need energy.
Adults
Every 2- 4Days, but they will not turn down snacks if offered.
Tips for Hunting and Feeding
Ghost mantises prefer to eat live prey, so waving something dead in their face is not recommended. To avoid injury, it’s best only to offer insects that are no larger than the mantis’ head. After 24 hours, if there is still live prey around, remove it to avoid stressing your mantis.
Supplement
Before feeding, make sure that all feeder insects have been gut-loaded. This ensures your ghost mantis gets all the nutrients it needs for healthy growth and molting.
For breeding females, it’s especially important to dust prey with a calcium and vitamin supplement once a week. This extra boost supports egg production and overall health.
How to care for a ghost mantis – Daily & Weekly routine
It’s not difficult to keep a ghost-mantis healthy and happy, but you must be consistent.
Molting
When your mantis is growing, it will moult several times. This is the time when it is most vulnerable.
Make sure that the enclosure is large enough to allow for plenty of vertical space, with sticks or branches. Mist lightly to maintain 40-60% moisture. A small interruption could lead to severe complications.
Cleaning
To prevent mold and bacteria, do a daily spot cleaning. Change the substrate once a month and disinfect the enclosure using a reptile-safe disinfectant.
Handling
The truth is that ghost mantises can be very sensitive and stressed. Avoid handling them unless it is necessary. Enjoy their natural behaviour instead. They’re more fascinating when they aren’t disturbed.
Breeding Ghost Mantises for Experienced Keepers
Breeding is rewarding, but it can also be tricky.
Sexing
Males have a slimmer figure and 8 abdominal segments, while females have a broader frame with 6-7 abdominal segments.
Mating :
Introduce a well-fed male into the enclosure of a female and monitor closely. If the female is starving, cannibalism is possible.
Ootheca care:
Females will lay egg cases, or ootheca (the female), that require moderate humidity. They should hatch within 6-8 weeks.
Ghost Mantis Colour Variations and Morphs
Ghost mantises are available in a variety of natural colours, ranging from tan through to brown and sometimes green. They can change colour depending on humidity and the environment. This makes them more interesting to keep.
Collectors also love the rarer morphs, such as the Black Ghost Mantis and Red Ghost Mantis. They all have the same requirements for care, but each adds a unique appearance to any collection.
FAQ
- How long do ghost mantises live?
A ghost mantis can live up to 8-12 months. However, this depends on their care and sex. Males have a shorter lifespan than females, sometimes by a year.
- Can ghost mantis fly?
YES… but only males! Male adult ghost mantises can fly when they are looking for a partner. The females have smaller wings and cannot fly.
- Can ghost mantises live together?
No. Cannibalism can be a serious problem as the nymphs age. It’s best to separate each mantis into its enclosure.
- How big do ghost mantises get?
Adult female ghost mantises can reach up to 2.5 inches, while males are slightly smaller, averaging around 1.5–2 inches.
- What do ghost mantises eat?
Ghost mantises only eat live insects. Fruit flies and roaches are among the insects they eat. You should always mix up the food to ensure that they receive a variety.
- Where do ghost mantises live?
You can find them in Africa and Madagascar. In the wild, you can find them in savannas and scrublands. Their amazing camouflage allows them to blend in perfectly with dried vegetation.
Conclusion
The Ghost Mantis is truly something special. Not just the camouflage, or its hardiness, but also its quiet way of going about its daily routine makes it unique. The African ghost mantis will make a great pet, whether you are new to mantids. These little wonders thrive with the right setup and constant humidity.