Iberian Spoonwing vs Mediterranean Mantis

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Iberian Spoonwing Mediterranean Mantis
Scientific Name Josandreva sazi Iris oratoria
Order Neuroptera Mantodea
Family Nemopteridae Mantidae
Size 25-32 mm wingspan (forewings) 40-60 mm
Habitat Grasslands Heathland
Diet Predators Predators
Regions Spain, Portugal Southern Europe, North Africa, Western United States
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Iberian Spoonwing

A rare Iberian Peninsula nemopterid found in hot, dry calcareous grasslands. One of Europe's more localized spoonwing species.

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Did You Know?

It is restricted to the Iberian Peninsula and is not found elsewhere in Europe.

Mediterranean Mantis

A medium-sized mantis with striking eyespots on its hindwings used to startle predators. It is native to the Mediterranean but established in the western United States.

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Did You Know?

When threatened, it flashes vivid purple and black eyespots on its hindwings to scare predators.