Peruvian Leaf Mantis vs Giant African Mantis

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Peruvian Leaf Mantis Giant African Mantis
Scientific Name Pseudacanthops lobipes Sphodromantis gastrica
Order Mantodea Mantodea
Family Acanthopidae Mantidae
Size 40-55mm 70-100 mm
Habitat Forests Beaches & Coastal
Diet Herbivores Omnivores
Regions South America Southern 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.

💡

Did You Know?

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

Giant African Mantis

One of Africa's largest mantis species with a robust green or brown body. It can catch prey as large as small lizards and frogs.

💡

Did You Know?

They have been observed catching and eating hummingbird-sized sunbirds at garden feeders in South Africa.