Praying Mantis Benefits Plants

Scientific Name: Tenodera aridifolia sinensis

Nickname: Praying Mantis

Appearance/Size:

Adults will reach lengths of up to 6 inches depending on species. Most species are green or brown, while some exotic species have adapted to their surroundings and have a produced a camouflage color.

Prefered Habitat:

Optimal conditions for hatching are 40% to 95% humidity and a temperature of 70°F to 90°F. Keep them where food is abundant to prevent cannibalism.

Reproduction:

Egg cases hatch - 3 weeks of warm spring temps. One egg case will yield appx. 50 to 200 predators. 6 months it becomes a full sized adult. Females will deposit 1 to 5 egg cases on bushes and flower stalks and dies shortly after.

Eat:

Everything they can see. They eat what they can catch. Eating field mice, snakes, beetles, caterpillars, butterfly’s, frog’s, crickets, and can turn cannibalistic. Placing them in a garden is tricky, as they will kill other beneficial bugs.

Release Rates:

Place 3 cases per 5,000 square feet or 10 to 100 cases per year per acre. Attach to twigs, leaves, fences, bush or tree. Avoid placing them on the ground because of natural enemies such as ants.