Pseudocreobotra wahlbergii

Pseudocreobotra wahlbergii – The decorative African flower mantis

If you are looking for a particularly aesthetic and exciting mantid, there is hardly any way around
Pseudocreobotra wahlbergii
over. The so-called African flower mantis not only impresses with its unique coloring, but also with its characteristic behavior – a real highlight in any mantid setup!

The animals remain with about 3 to 5 cm are quite small and are therefore perfect for compact rearing boxes, cubes or smaller terrariums with good ventilation. Their leaf mimicry can already be seen as nymphs, but it becomes really spectacular from L5 onwards when the wings come through: The spread wings then show the famous “Eyespots”with which the animals deter when threatened – a behavior that you have to see live!

Pseudocreobotra wahlbergii originates from the savannahs and bushy regions of Africa and therefore prefers a warm, well-ventilated environment with rather moderate humidity. Temperatures from 24-30 °C are ideal, at night it can also be a little cooler. The humidity is best between 50 and 70 %depending on the stage – it may be slightly more humid during the moulting phase, but it does not tolerate waterlogging.

When kept, the animals are active, curious and surprisingly agile. As Lurking hunter With a strong sense of sight, they often track prey at a distance. They are best fed with flies (gold or house flies), microflies or Drosophila, whereby they quickly learn where to find food. A varied diet not only ensures healthy animals, but also bright colors.

Breeding is easily possible for ambitious keepers – the females lay oothecae, from which up to 30-40 nymphs hatch. Rearing is quite reliable with the right size of food, sufficient space and regular spraying.

Pseudocreobotra wahlbergii
is not only pretty to look at, but also brings a lot of life and elegance to the terrarium. Whether kept individually or in controlled groups up to L4 – this flower mantis is a real recommendation for fans of small species with lots of character.