Ghost Mantis - Phyllocrania paradoxa

Ghost Mantis (Phyllocrania paradoxa) – The ultimate master of dead-leaf camouflage

Are you looking for an extraordinary praying mantis that looks like it was plucked straight from a forest floor? The Ghost Mantis (Phyllocrania paradoxa) is native to Madagascar and Africa. Thanks to the asymmetrical protrusion on its head, jagged contours, and dead-leaf colors, it blends in completely with fallen leaves and twigs!

Behavior: Calm 'sit-and-wait' hunter

Unlike active hunters, the Ghost Mantis is a patient ambush predator. Relying on its camouflage, it remains motionless until a flying insect passes by, then strikes with lightning speed using its powerful raptorial forelegs! They have a gentle and sometimes somewhat shy nature. When feeding with large tweezers, they might get startled; calmly waiting is the key to success.

Unique opportunity for group housing

What truly makes Phyllocrania paradoxa special in the mantis hobby is its minimal cannibalism. This is one of the very rare species that can be successfully kept in groups – provided there is always enough food present and the enclosure is spacious enough! A large terrarium full of branches and dead leaves with multiple specimens offers a breathtaking spectacle.

Care and Environmental Requirements

Ghost Mantises grow to about 5 cm long and thrive best at a temperature of approximately 26 °C (ranging between 20 °C and 30 °C, at least 18 °C at night). They require relatively high humidity (60% to 90%), which is easily achieved by lightly misting about 5 times a week. A terrarium of at least 20 x 20 x 30 cm offers ample space for perches and hiding places.

Feeding

In nature, they mainly eat flying insects such as curly-wing flies and house flies. Crickets (for example, size 6 or 7) are also readily eaten. Note: ensure no loose crickets remain in the enclosure when the mantis is molting, as the spider/mantis is very vulnerable then.

Key advantages at a glance:

• Unique Dead-Leaf Camouflage: Alien-like appearance with a 'twisted' head.
• Suitable for Group Housing: Very low risk of cannibalism with sufficient food.
• Calm Character: Easy and relaxing to observe.
• Ideal Beginner Species: Strong, easy-to-care-for mantis.
• Delivered in L3-L7 Stage: Good size for further rearing.

Product Specifications:

• Species: Phyllocrania paradoxa (Ghost Mantis)
• Size upon delivery: Stage L3 to L7
• Adult size: Approx. 5 cm
• Temperature: 20 °C - 30 °C (ideal daytime temperature 26 °C)
• Humidity: 60% - 90% (mist about 5x per week)
• Food: Flies (curly/house flies), small crickets
• Housing: Individually OR in a group (with sufficient space and food)

Bring one of the most beautiful praying mantises in the world into your home. Order the Ghost Mantis today!