Tunisian Desert Mantis vs Dobsonfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Tunisian Desert Mantis | Dobsonfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Eremiaphila berndstiewi | Corydalus cornutus |
| Order | Mantodea | Neuroptera |
| Family | Eremiaphilidae | Corydalidae |
| Size | 15-22 mm | 40-55 mm body, 125 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Deserts & Drylands | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | Tunisia | North America |
| Conservation | Data Deficient | Least Concern |
Tunisian Desert Mantis
A recently described desert mantis from southern Tunisia. It has an extremely flattened body that helps it hide under stones and in crevices.
Did You Know?
It was only described as a new species in 2012, showing how poorly known desert mantises remain.
Dobsonfly
Large insects with intimidating mandibles in males that are actually too large to bite effectively. Aquatic hellgrammite larvae are prized as fishing bait and indicate clean water.
Did You Know?
Male dobsonflies have terrifying mandibles up to 40 mm long, but they are so large the males cannot actually generate enough force to pinch — the females bite harder.