【3D Specimen】False Flower Mantis 5th Instar Molt Specimen Tarantula Centipede Scorpion

Scientific Name: Idolomantis diabolica

Japanese Name: Nisehanaōukamakiri
English Name: Devil's Flower Mantis or Giant Devil's Flower Mantis


Idolomantis is a monotypic genus of praying mantis in the family Empusidae. This genus contains only one species, Idolomantis diabolica, commonly known as the Devil's Flower Mantis or Giant Devil's Flower Mantis. It is one of the largest species of praying mantis and possibly the largest species that mimics flowers.

Idolomantis diabolica is a large praying mantis belonging to the family Mantidae. Females grow to about 13 cm (5.1 inches) in length, while males reach about 10 cm (3.9 inches). They inhabit Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Somalia, Tanzania, South Sudan, and Uganda. Their threat display is characterized by vibrant colors such as red, white, blue, purple, and black.

Mature females exhibit sexual dimorphism during the breeding season to attract males. The female lowers the tip of her abdomen and slightly raises her wings to expose more of the upper side of her abdomen, releasing pheromones to attract males. However, sexual cannibalism is prominent between mated pairs of I. diabolica in captivity. Due to their cautious nature, intrusive environments can lead to aggressive behavior. For example, females may exhibit predatory instincts during mating, often resulting in them devouring the male's head.

Larvae
Females lay approximately 10-50 eggs in an ootheca. The period from egg-laying to hatching varies depending on temperature and humidity but is typically around 50 days. After hatching, the larvae feed on small insects such as houseflies and fruit flies. Males mature after about 7 molts, while females reach maturity around the 8th instar. The lifespan of I. diabolica varies depending on its habitat but is typically around 12 months.

Due to its beauty and dramatic appearance, I. diabolica is known as a high-end pet. Thousands of consumers purchase them annually, especially in the Western Hemisphere.

Please note that we cannot guarantee against downgrading due to shipping.
We will ship a specimen from Tanzania.
This is a shed skin from the 5th instar nymph molted on June 14, 2020.