Odontomantis planiceps
Odontomantis • Gonypetidae
A tiny mantis whose black early nymphs mimic ants for protection. It is small, hardy, and can live largely on fruit flies, making it a good compact beginner keep. Detailed species-specific parameters are sparse, so this uses genus-typical care: warmth around 72-85°F, moderate 50-70% humidity, a light daily mist for drinking, and — importantly — strong ventilation to prevent stagnant, moldy air in the small enclosure. House individually; harmless to humans.
Temperature
72-85°F
Humidity
50-70%
Prey size: flies, crickets, roaches
Type
arboreal
Adult Size
female ~0.8 in, male ~0.55 in
Growth Rate
fast
Native Region
Southeast Asia
Temperament
tiny, fast; nymphs mimic ants (Batesian mimicry)
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