Forestfly vs Dead Leaf Mantis

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Forestfly Dead Leaf Mantis
Scientific Name Nemoura cambrica Deroplatys desiccata
Order Plecoptera Mantodea
Family Nemouridae Mantidae
Size 6-9 mm 60-90 mm
Habitat Forests Forests
Diet Detritivores Omnivores
Regions Europe Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Forestfly

A small brown stonefly associated with forested Welsh and British streams. Nymphs have distinctive cervical gills and feed on leaf detritus.

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Did You Know?

The species was first described from specimens collected in Wales, giving it the name cambrica.

Dead Leaf Mantis

Extraordinary camouflage that makes it look exactly like a dried, curled leaf — complete with brown coloring, leaf veins, and imperfections like fungal spots.

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Did You Know?

The dead leaf mantis has camouflage so perfect that even its legs have flattened extensions mimicking leaf fragments, complete with fake bite marks and fungal spots.