Choeradodis
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Choeradodis | ||||||||||||
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several; see text |
Choeradodis is a genus of mantids, sometimes referred to as shield mantises or hooded mantises, found in the tropics of both the New World and Old World. They are recognized by the large shield-like thorax, hence their common name. They are fairy large insects. Females of some species can grow up to about 4" long, and males are slightly smaller in size.
[edit] Captivity
In captivity, they have a huge appetite, which can lead to cannibalism, a common occurrence among captive mantises. Nymphs feed on fruit flies during the hatchling stage, and will move on to house flies and small crickets after 3-4 molts, and blue bottles or other flying insects when larger. Newborn nymphs are usually bright red, their shields is not present, but slightly grows on each shed until reaching adult size. They require temperatures of 25 - 35C (77 - 95F), with the humidity in the region of 70 - 80%, but can tolerate temporary temperature and humidity irregularities.