African Devil Mantis vs Petroleum Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | African Devil Mantis | Petroleum Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Idolomantis lobiceps | Helaeomyia petrolei |
| Order | Mantodea | Diptera |
| Family | Empusidae | Ephydridae |
| Size | 75-100 mm | 5 mm |
| Habitat | Forests | Underground |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, Tanzania | North America |
| Conservation | Data Deficient | Least Concern |
African Devil Mantis
A large, lobed mantis from the dry forests of central East Africa. It has pronounced lobes on its head and legs that create a leaf-like silhouette.
Did You Know?
Its head lobes are among the most developed in the family, providing exceptional camouflage.
Petroleum Fly
The only insect whose larvae develop in crude petroleum. Found in natural oil seeps in California, including the La Brea Tar Pits. Larvae eat insects trapped in the oil.
Did You Know?
This is the only animal on Earth that develops in crude oil — a substance toxic to virtually all other life. Its larvae swim through petroleum and breathe through snorkel-like tubes.