For the identification of insects and other fauna and flora of South Africa.

Friday, May 4, 2012

Flower Mantis (Harpagomantis tricolor)

 Family Hymenopodidae
 This mantis can be recognized by the pink eyes with white dots and the double spine which projects forward from the middle of the head.
 It differs from the Eyed-flower mantis (Pseudocreobotra wahlbergi) in that it does not have the ringed “eye” on the wings.
 When they are older, the colours get darker but this is a baby, about 2.5cm in length (1”).
 They are widespread and common but not easily seen as they blend in very well with flowers.
 They stay immobile for long periods of time waiting for prey to come within reach.