Lurker Praying Mantis vs Chorus Cicada
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Lurker Praying Mantis | Chorus Cicada |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Archimantis latistyla | Amphipsalta zelandica |
| Order | Mantodea | Hemiptera |
| Family | Mantidae | Cicadidae |
| Size | 80-110 mm | 25-35 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Underground |
| Diet | Predators | Root Feeders |
| Regions | Australia, Oceania | Oceania (New Zealand) |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Lurker Praying Mantis
One of Australia's largest praying mantises, reaching over 10 cm in length. It is a powerful ambush predator that sits motionless on bark or branches, waiting to strike with lightning-fast raptorial forelegs.
Did You Know?
Female large brown mantises are known to consume the male during or after mating, which provides nutrition for egg production.
Chorus Cicada
The most common and widespread cicada in New Zealand, producing the iconic summer chorus heard throughout the country. Nymphs spend several years underground feeding on root sap before emerging to moult into adults. Males produce their characteristic song using tymbal organs.
Did You Know?
The chorus cicada's distinctive whirring call is so emblematic of New Zealand summers that it has become a cultural symbol of the season.