The orchid mantis is perfectly disguised as an orchid. While their appearance prevents them being seen research has shown it also attracts prey. Insects see more of the UV light spectrum than we do and to pollinators these mantises appear as the most attractive flower. This attracts them leading to their capture and demise.
Their eyes sit on horn-like projections extending from the head. Between these are a pair of antennae which sit on top of the head.
As an insect they have six legs. The front pair of raptorial legs are lined with spikes that help them to grip prey items. Their back legs are flattened to resemble petals and help with their camouflage.
The body is patterned with white and pink. Their pattern can be find tuned to suit 13 flowers found in their habitat.
Their body measures between 3 and 6cm (1.25 and 2.25in) long. Males may be as little as half the size of the female.
Females have a green spot at the centre of the back while males have a brown spot. |
