The Chinese mantis is a nonnative, fascinating insect with a unique life cycle. Often referred to as a “praying mantis” due to its front legs resembling hands folded in prayer, this intriguing creature is an ambush predator and can be found in various shades of green and tan link.
Hatching in spring, young mantises spend their time eating, growing, and molting throughout the growing season. As the season progresses, they eventually mate and lay eggs, completing their life cycle within a year link. Whether you’re an insect enthusiast or simply curious about these captivating predators, understanding the Chinese mantis life cycle offers a glimpse into the intricate world of nature.
Chinese Mantis Description
Physical Characteristics
The Chinese mantis (Tenodera sinensis) is a well-known type of mantis insect. As a long and slender insect, the male typically measures around 3 inches, while females grow up to 4 3/8 inches 1. Their triangular heads have extremely thin antennae and prominent eyes, making them easily identifiable2. The mantis’ front legs, or forelegs, are adapted for grasping prey and are often held against its thorax in a “praying” position1. It has a unique facial shield, which is the area of the face in front of the antennae and between the eyes3.
- Length: 3 inches (males), 4 3/8 inches (females)
- Thin antennae
- Triangular head
- Grasping forelegs
Colors and Patterns
Chinese mantises display a range of colors depending on their environment, typically presenting in shades of pale green to tan. The tan color variation usually has a green line running down the side, at the edges of their forewings1. This green line is believed to aid in camouflage.
Some distinct features of Chinese mantis patterns include:
- Pale green to tan coloring
- Green edge line on tan variation
- Triangular facial shield (square with vertical stripes in some cases)
Life Cycle
Eggs and Ootheca
The life cycle of a Chinese mantis begins with eggs that are laid in a protective case called an ootheca. Female mantises produce oothecae which contain many eggs. Some key features of the ootheca include:
- Typically brown or tan
- Made of a foam-like material
- Eggs are kept safe from predators
Nymph Stages
After hatching, Chinese mantises go through a series of nymph stages. During these stages, they resemble smaller versions of adult mantises. As they grow, mantises molt to shed their exoskeleton, gradually becoming more developed. Key characteristics of the nymph stages are:
- Several molts
- Wings not fully developed
- Similar appearance to adults, but smaller
Adult Stage
Once the Chinese mantis reaches the adult stage, it has fully developed wings and can reproduce.
Male Chinese Mantis:
- Around 3 inches long
- Often brownish
- More agile fliers
Female Chinese Mantis:
- About 4 3/8 inches long
- Green or greenish
- Less agile fliers
Mating and Reproduction
Mating occurs in the adult stage. After mating, the female produces oothecae and lays eggs, continuing the life cycle. Chinese mantises typically live for only about one year.
Footnotes
