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Giant Shield Mantis

Rhombodera basalis

RhomboderaMantidae

beginner
Giant Shield Mantis (Rhombodera basalis)
Bernard DUPONT from FRANCE, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Overview

A bulky green mantis with a distinctive broad, shield-like extension of the pronotum. Hardy and forgiving of temperature/humidity swings — a good beginner large mantis. Keep warm with 60-80% humidity (light daily mist) and a tall enclosure full of sticks and fake plants to climb and hide in. House individually; harmless to humans.

Husbandry Requirements

Temperature & Humidity

Temperature

72-86°F

Humidity

60-80%

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

~4 inches

Growth Rate

fast

Native Region

Southeast Asia (Malaysia)

Temperament

calm, hardy

Behavior

Webbing
BurrowingNo
Water DishOptional

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