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African Twig Mantis

Popa spurca

PopaMantidae

intermediate

Overview

A slender, brown twig-mimic mantis from warm African scrub and woodland. Wants warmth (77-86°F), only moderate humidity (40-60%), and light misting — it is prone to problems if kept too damp, so err on the drier side and ventilate well. Furnish with vertical twigs and bark for it to stretch out along and disappear. An eager feeder on flies, crickets, roaches, and moths. House individually (nymphs may be communal early on if well fed); harmless to humans.

Husbandry Requirements

Temperature & Humidity

Temperature

75-86°F

Humidity

40-60%

Enclosure Sizes

Adult:≥3x body length tall, 2x wide; well-ventilated

Substrate

Type:coco fiber or paper towel; light misting for humidity/drinking
Depth:1-2 inches

Feeding Schedule

Adult:every 2-3 days

Prey size: flies, crickets, roaches

Quick Stats

Type

arboreal

Adult Size

female ~2.5 in, male ~2 in

Growth Rate

medium

Native Region

Central and East Africa

Temperament

cryptic, slow twig mimic; aggressive feeder

Behavior

Webbing
BurrowingNo
Water DishOptional

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