Conehead Mantis vs Venezuelan Bark Mantis

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Conehead Mantis Venezuelan Bark Mantis
Scientific Name Empusa pennata Liturgusa fossetti
Order Mantodea Mantodea
Family Empusidae Liturgusidae
Size 47-65 mm 20-28 mm
Habitat Heathland Forests
Diet Predators Wood Feeders
Regions Europe, Africa Venezuela
Conservation Least Concern Data Deficient

Conehead Mantis

A distinctive European mantis with a tall conical head crest and feathery antennae in males. Nymphs resemble small aliens with their elongated heads and stick-like bodies.

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Did You Know?

Nymphs of the conehead mantis curl their abdomen upward over their body when walking, causing them to resemble tiny scorpions to deter predators.

Venezuelan Bark Mantis

A small bark mantis from Venezuela described in the 2014 revision of the genus. It has subtle brown markings that match the bark of tropical hardwoods.

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Did You Know?

It was named after the jazz musician Lester 'Pres' Fossett by the describing entomologist.