Phyllocrania paradoxa “ghost mantis”

Phyllocrania paradoxa, better known as the ghost mantis, belongs to the family Hymenopodidae, subfamily Phyllothelyinae – a group of highly specialized mantis that are characterized by remarkable mimicry. The species is native to tropical Africa, including Angola, Madagascar, Malawi and other regions with dry scrubland and open forests.

P. paradoxa is characterized by its strongly pronounced, leaf-like body with numerous lobes on the head, thorax and abdomen. These structures serve as camouflage in its natural habitat – it imitates dry foliage so convincingly that it is often overlooked even in terrariums.

In the adult stage, the ghost mantis reaches a length of around 4-5 cm, with females being more robust and massive than the more delicate males, which are also fully capable of flight. The species is dimorphic, but both sexes show the “skeletal” appearance typical of Phyllocrania.

A well-ventilated terrarium measuring 20 × 20 × 30 cm is sufficient for keeping a single animal. However, if you want to keep several animals together, you should make sure there is enough space and structure. For groups of three or more animals, a tank measuring 30 × 30 × 40 cm or more with lots of dry branches, dried leaves and visual barriers is recommended to prevent stress and cannibalism. Compared to many other mantid species, Phyllocrania paradoxa is extremely peaceful – groups can be kept successfully under the right conditions, especially in the younger stages. Nevertheless, the more space and opportunities to retreat are provided, the better the coexistence will be. Good air circulation is particularly important in group housing, as higher animal density can affect the humidity locally.

P. paradoxa is comparatively tolerant in keeping and breeding. The optimum temperature is 24-28 °C with a slight drop at night. Humidity should be kept between 50 and 70 %. Good ventilation is important, as stagnant, moist air can lead to mycosis – a common problem in overcrowded terrariums. A terrarium measuring 20x20x30 cm is sufficient for a single animal. When keeping them in groups, make sure there is sufficient privacy, lots of structures and plenty of space to prevent cannibalism.

Flight-active insects such as Terfly, gold flies or Drosophila hydei are suitable foods for young animals. Cockroaches or crickets should only be offered if they are small enough and mobile, as P. paradoxa are ambush hunters with a preference for flying prey.

The species can be successfully bred under controlled conditions. Females lay oothecae, from which between 20 and 40 nymphs hatch after around 4-8 weeks, depending on the temperature and humidity. These are completely independent at birth, but require a microclimate with high humidity for the first moult.

Phyllocrania paradoxa is ideal for structurally rich display tanks with a near-natural design. Due to its peaceful temperament, small space requirements and fascinating morphology, it is also very popular with beginners. Nevertheless, the keeper should always pay attention to the ecological requirements – excessive humidity or inadequate aeration can quickly have a negative effect.

Food:

• L1/L2: Small fruit flies, crickets XS
• L3/L4: Large fruit flies, oven fish, crickets S
• L5/L6: Gold flies, oven fish, cricket M, terfly
• L7/adult: blowflies, crickets L