IUCN Conservation Status –
Least Concern
Extinct In The Wild
Class: Insecta
Order: Mantodea
Family: Hymenopodidae
We have 4 ghost mantises in our Bugs at Home exhibit, remember to look carefully as they are masters of camoflage!
The ghost mantis is native to sub-Saharan Africa, thriving in dry bushlands, savannahs, and woodland edges. Its incredible camouflage makes it look like a curled, dead leaf, helping it hide from predators and ambush prey. Nymphs even mimic ants during their early stages for extra protection.
Fun facts
- Grows only 45–50 mm, so they’re a small-sized mantis, but boasts dramatic camouflage that mimics a dead, desiccated leaf
- Can play dead (thanatosis) when threatened, especially the females and later instar nymphs. Males prefer to run or fly away
- Coloration varies with humidity and light, ranging from dark brown to greyish green or tan
- They are sexually dimorphic: females are more compact with shorter wings; males are thinner, with longer wings and are better fliers
- A single female ootheca can yield up to three dozen nymphs!
Conservation
Ghost mantises are currently listed as threatened; they face habitat loss and collection pressure due to popularity in the pet trade.