Praying Mantis vs Spotted Bark Mantis
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Praying Mantis | Spotted Bark Mantis |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Mantis religiosa | Amorphoscelis guttata |
| Order | Mantodea | Mantodea |
| Family | Mantidae | Amorphoscelidae |
| Size | 60-75 mm | 18-25 mm |
| Habitat | Heathland | Mountains |
| Diet | Predators | Wood Feeders |
| Regions | Europe, Asia, North America (introduced) | Tanzania, Kenya, Ethiopia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Data Deficient |
Praying Mantis
The original praying mantis, named for the prayer-like position of its folded forelegs. A formidable predator with stereoscopic vision and lightning-fast strikes taking just 50-70 milliseconds.
Did You Know?
A praying mantis strike takes just 50-70 milliseconds — faster than the blink of a human eye. They are the only insects that can see in 3D, using a unique form of stereo vision.
Spotted Bark Mantis
A spotted bark mantis from East Africa with small dots scattered across its wings and body. The spots mimic tiny lichens and bark imperfections.
Did You Know?
Its spotted pattern is thought to mimic crustose lichens commonly found on montane tree bark.