Adopting a Praying Mantis: Which Species is Best For You?

There are many species of praying mantises in the world, and each one carries its own uniqueness and personality. Some, like the bold and assertive Chinese mantis, rely on confidence and strength. Others, such as the delicate and shy orchid mantis, use subtlety and camouflage.  These differences in personality are clearly reflected in how mantises hunt, move, and camouflage themselves within their environments.

Giant Asian Mantis - Hierodula membranacea

Rather than retreating, the giant Asian mantis often approaches movement with curiosity, confidently tracking people and

objects with its expressive eyes. This combination of large size, steady temperament, and fearless curiosity makes the giant Asian mantis a great pick for keepers hoping to handle and interact with their mantis frequently.

Orchid Mantis - Hymenopus coronatus

The orchid mantis is known for its delicate and shy nature, often appearing gentle and reserved compared to bolder mantis species. This mantis is best suited for keepers hoping to observe rather than constantly handle their mantis. 

**Some individual orchid mantises can be more outgoing, though. 

Vietnam Dead Leaf Mantis - Deroplatys gorochovi

The Vietnam dead leaf mantis is a confident mantis, relying heavily on its camouflage and dramatic defensive pose when threatened. This mantis can be percieved as calm and reserved, and perfect for keepers who want a “chill” mantis to sit and interact with them. 

Chinese Mantis - Tenodera sinensis

The Chinese mantis has a confident, bold, and inquisitive personality. It is generally fearless and alert, often standing its ground rather than retreating when approached. Compared to shyer mantids, the Chinese mantis is more tolerant of gentle handling and adapts well to interaction. This mantis is perfect for keepers who plan on interacting and handling their mantis frequently. 

Spiny Flower Mantis - Pseudocreobotra wahlbergi

The spiny flower mantis has a lively, alert, and somewhat sassy personality. They are known for wiggling. This mantis is more energetic and reactive than other mantis species, often quick to turn, posture, or hop when it notices movement. This mantis is perfect for keepers who want to take care of a real-life fairy. 

Ghost Mantis - Phyllocrania paradoxa

The ghost mantis has a calm, quiet personality that sets it apart from many other mantis species. It is patient and observant, spending long periods perfectly still while blending in like a dead leaf. Ghost mantises can become tolerant to handling and have a silly personality. This mantis is great for keepers who plan on handling but also observing their mantis.

Shield Mantis - Rhombodera kirbyi, Rhombodera extensicollis, Rhombodera basalis

(several subspecies of the shield mantis)

Shield mantises are generally alert and confident, relying on its leaf-shaped thorax to intimidate predators. When threatened, a shield mantis is more likely to stand its ground. Certain subspecies may be more defensive than others, but over time they can become tolerant to handling, and friendly around their mantis keeper. This mantis is great for keepers who can be patient and work at creating a trusting bond with their mantis.