Lesser Purple Emperor vs African Pink Flower Mantis

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Lesser Purple Emperor African Pink Flower Mantis
Scientific Name Apatura ilia Chloroharpax modesta
Order Lepidoptera Mantodea
Family Nymphalidae Hymenopodidae
Size 54-68 mm wingspan 20-30 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Underground
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions Central and southern Europe, temperate Asia West Africa, Central Africa
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Lesser Purple Emperor

Similar to the Purple Emperor but smaller, with an ocellus on the forewing and more strongly marked underside. It occurs in two forms: typical purple and a golden-orange aberration.

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Did You Know?

The orange form (f. clytie) was once thought to be a separate species before genetics proved otherwise.

African Pink Flower Mantis

A delicate green mantis from tropical Africa that develops pink highlights when near flowers. It is small and slender with an elegant, smooth body shape.

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Did You Know?

Its translucent green color allows light to pass through its body, enhancing its floral camouflage.