Peruvian Leaf Mantis vs Conehead Mantis

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Peruvian Leaf Mantis Conehead Mantis
Scientific Name Pseudacanthops lobipes Empusa pennata
Order Mantodea Mantodea
Family Acanthopidae Empusidae
Size 40-55mm 47-65 mm
Habitat Forests Heathland
Diet Herbivores Predators
Regions South America Europe, Africa
Conservation Data Deficient Least Concern

Peruvian Leaf Mantis

A mantis that perfectly mimics a green leaf complete with a leaf-shaped abdomen and wing covers with vein patterns. Its legs have leaf-like lobes. Even close inspection can fail to distinguish it from foliage.

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Did You Know?

Its abdomen is flattened and shaped exactly like a green leaf, complete with a convincing midrib and veins.

Conehead Mantis

A distinctive European mantis with a tall conical head crest and feathery antennae in males. Nymphs resemble small aliens with their elongated heads and stick-like bodies.

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Did You Know?

Nymphs of the conehead mantis curl their abdomen upward over their body when walking, causing them to resemble tiny scorpions to deter predators.