Mantidfly vs Green Mantidfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Mantidfly | Green Mantidfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Mantispa styriaca | Zeugomantispa minuta |
| Order | Neuroptera | Neuroptera |
| Family | Mantispidae | Mantispidae |
| Size | 15-25 mm | 12-18 mm |
| Habitat | Heathland | Wetlands |
| Diet | Herbivores | Predators |
| Regions | Europe, Asia | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Mantidfly
A remarkable insect with raptorial forelegs strikingly similar to a praying mantis, a textbook example of convergent evolution. Adults ambush small insects from vegetation.
Did You Know?
Mantidfly larvae are parasitoids that enter spider egg sacs and feed on the eggs before pupating inside.
Green Mantidfly
A small green mantidfly found in the southeastern United States. It has enlarged raptorial forelegs and a long prothorax like a miniature mantis.
Did You Know?
Despite looking like a praying mantis, it is more closely related to lacewings and antlions.