Easy
India
9 CM
25-30 °C
Hierodula membranacea – Giant Asian Mantis: A majestic inhabitant for your terrarium
The Hierodula membranacea, better known as the Indian giant praying mantis, is one of the largest and most impressive mantid species. With its impressive size and characteristic, bright green or sometimes yellowish body, it attracts attention and adds an exotic touch to any terrarium.
This praying mantis originally comes from South Asia and prefers warm, humid habitats. It is known for its extraordinary hunting technique, in which it captures insects and sometimes even small vertebrates with lightning-fast movements of its powerful tentacles. It is also active in the pursuit of its prey, which makes it particularly interesting to watch.
When keeping Hierodula membranacea in a terrarium, it is important to provide sufficient space for movement and the typical hunting behaviour.
A terrarium with minimum dimensions of 30x30x45 cm, warm temperatures between 24 and 30 degrees Celsius and a high humidity of around 60-70% create ideal conditions that mimic the natural habitats of this mantid.
The terrarium should also be rich in climbing opportunities such as branches and plants, which not only provide sufficient support but also encourage the mantid’s natural behaviour.
The Hierodula membranacea is not only an enrichment for terrarium owners because of its impressive appearance, but also because of its interesting behaviour. Their care and breeding can be a challenging and fascinating experience, offering deeper insights into the world of terraristics.
Whether for experienced keepers or motivated beginners who are ready to fulfil the specific needs of this species, the Indian giant mantis is a spectacular pet that exudes a special fascination and is sure to become an attraction in your collection.
Rearing the nymphs
Temperature: 24 – 28°C
Humidity: 70 – 80%
Food: Drosophila hydei
Temperature: 24 – 28°C
Humidity: 70 – 80%
Food: Drosophila hydei / Firebrats
Temperature: 24 – 28°C
Humidity: 70 – 80%
Food: Drosophila hydei / Firebrats
Temperature: 24 – 29°C
Humidity: 70 – 80%
Food: Golden Flies / Firebrats
Temperature: 24 – 29°C
Humidity: 70 – 80%
Food: Golden Flies / Blowlies / Shelfordella lateralis / Blaptica dubia
Temperature: 24 – 29°C
Humidity: 70 – 80%
Food: Golden Flies / Blowlies / Shelfordella lateralis / Blaptica dubia
Temperature: 24 – 30°C
Humidity: 65 – 80%
Food: Blowlies / Shelfordella lateralis / Blaptica dubia
Temperature: 24 – 30°C
Humidity: 65 – 80%
Food: Blowlies / Shelfordella lateralis / Blaptica dubia
Temperature: 24 – 30°C
Humidity: 65 – 80%
Food: Blowlies / Shelfordella lateralis / Blaptica dubia
Note: Males are sexually mature
Mating: They are ready to mate about two to three weeks after moulting.
Temperature: 24 – 30°C
Humidity: 65 – 80%
Food: Blowlies / Shelfordella lateralis / Blaptica dubia
Note: Females are sexually mature
Mating: They are ready to mate about four weeks after moulting.