Dead Leaf Mantis 2-3cm

The Dead Leaf Mantis (Deroplatys desiccata) is a fascinating species of mantis known for its incredible camouflage abilities, resembling a dried leaf. They require a humid environment and should be housed in a well-ventilated enclosure with plenty of vertical space for moulting.

This fascinating mantis originates in southeast Asia, where the ambient temperature is consistently warm and humid. This means that we have to replicate this in captivity with the use of a heat mat, thermostat, or other heating type. The mantis must be misted regularly to achieve humidity of around 80%. Insufficient humidity can lead to dehydration and may result in shedding issues for the mantis. Maintain the enclosure between 25-30 degrees Celsius (77-86 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day and slightly cooler at night to replicate the temperature fluctuations found in their natural habitat.

Mantises are avid hunters and prefer live prey, feeding on a variety of insects, including fruit flies, crickets, and small roaches. Ensuring a diverse diet is crucial to meeting the mantis’s nutritional requirements effectively. Adult mantises typically feed around once a week, but growing mantises may require more frequent feeding sessions based on their developmental stage.

The lifespan of the Dead Leaf mantis is around 12–18 months, with females typically living longer than males. It is important to provide a comfortable and suitable environment to help maximise their lifespan.

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