Pseudocreobotra wahlbergii

Pseudocreobotra wahlbergii – Small, colorful and full of energy

Pseudocreobotra wahlbergii is one of the most well-known flower mantids in terraristics, as the species combines unusual coloration with very active behaviour. While many mantids are predominantly brown or green in color, this species displays bright primary colors, strong contrasts and striking markings.

The animals become particularly fascinating as they grow older. As soon as the wings develop, the famous eyespots appear, making the mantid appear much larger and more dangerous when threatened.

It is precisely this pattern that makes this species one of the most popular praying mantises in the world.

Conspicuous eyespots as a defense

One of the most exciting features of Pseudocreobotra wahlbergii appears when the animals feel threatened. The wings are then opened, revealing the distinctive eyespots.

This creates the impression of a much larger animal, while potential predators are to be deterred. You don’t see this behavior every day, but when it is shown, it stays in your memory for a long time.

This is precisely why the flower mantis is one of the species that is always a pleasure to observe.

Active hunters with excellent eyesight

In contrast to many lurking hunters Pseudocreobotra wahlbergii do not always wait passively for passing prey. Instead, the animals often pursue moving food animals with their large eyes.

They turn their heads, observe their surroundings and react surprisingly quickly to movements. As soon as the right opportunity arises, the tentacles strike in a flash.

This makes the species appear much more active than many other small mantids.

Terrarium and furnishings

Due to its compact size, the flower mantis is ideal for smaller terrariums. At the same time, there should be sufficient height so that the animals can shed their skin easily.

Particularly suitable:

• Repto Terra Sky
• Mantid terrariums
• Rearing cup for young animals

Recommended for the installation:

• Repto Plant Vines
• fine twigs
• Cork branches
• Artificial or real plants
• small flowering plants

This creates plenty of places to sit, while the animals can use their natural camouflage at the same time.

Climate and care

As the species originates from warmer regions of Africa, it prefers a warm climate with medium humidity.

They have proven themselves:

• Temperature: 24-30 °C
• Humidity: 50-70 %

During the moulting phase, the humidity may be slightly higher so that the moulting process runs smoothly. At the same time, the terrarium should remain well ventilated so that there is no stagnant air.

With a GLORIA fine sprayer can be used to regulate the humidity particularly finely, creating stable conditions.

Feeding

The species has an excellent appetite and reliably accepts various food animals.

Particularly suitable are:

• Drosophila melanogaster
• Drosophila hydei
• Gold flies
• Blowflies
• small crickets
• Terfly

Flying prey in particular is readily accepted, as it encourages natural hunting behavior and at the same time keeps them occupied.

Offspring

Under suitable conditions, breeding is often successful without any problems. The females regularly lay oothecae, from which numerous young can hatch after a few weeks.

The nymphs already show beautiful leaf mimicry, while the typical eyespots only develop later in their growth. With each moult, the animals become more contrasting, which significantly changes their appearance.

It is precisely this development that makes rearing them particularly exciting.

Important points on posture

• Compact mantid species
• Conspicuous eyespots on the wings
• Active hunting behavior
• Good ventilation is important
• Flying food animals ideal
• Also suitable for beginners

Suitable accessories for your setup

We recommend that you keep them successfully:

• Mantid terrarium complete set –ideal mantid terrarium
• BraPlast Dose-perfect for young animals
• river root – Additional climbing areas
• GLORIA fine sprayer – optimum humidity
• Gold flies – ideal food animal
• Terfly – varied food
• Large Drosophila – optimal food for young animals
• moss branches – natural seats

This creates a functional and at the same time natural setup, while the animals can show their full behavior and impressive coloration.

Conclusion

Pseudocreobotra wahlbergii combines beauty, activity and exciting behavior in a single species. The famous eyespots, intense coloration and active hunting style ensure that this mantid never gets boring.

If you are looking for a small, colorful and at the same time uncomplicated praying mantis, you will love Pseudocreobotra wahlbergii enjoy for a long time. Between flowers and branches, it impressively demonstrates why it is one of the most popular mantids in terraristics.