Liturgusidae
Liturgusidae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Mantodea
- Family: Liturgusidae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Liturgusidae: //lɪˌtɜːrˈɡuːsɪˌdaɪ//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Liturgusidae is a family of lichen mantises characterized by their cryptic coloration and specialized habitat preferences, primarily located in Neotropical regions. They have seen taxonomic revisions, influencing the classification of associated genera.
Physical Characteristics
Members of the Liturgusidae family, often referred to as lichen mantises, typically exhibit coloration and morphology that enables them to blend into their arboreal habitats, such as bark and lichen.
Identification Tips
Look for mantises that have a flattened body shape and texture resembling tree bark or lichen; they may also display cryptic coloration that aids in camouflage.
Habitat
Primarily found on tree bark and in areas with significant vegetation, often residing in Neotropical environments.
Distribution
Two species in the area, with a total of 35 species in 5 genera globally, predominantly found in the Neotropics extending into southeastern United States.
Diet
Carnivorous, primarily feeding on other insects.
Life Cycle
Incomplete metamorphosis, with eggs hatching into nymphs that resemble small adults and progressively molt into larger instars.
Reproduction
Reproductive strategies include pre-mating displays or fights to establish dominance, followed by egg laying in oothecae.
Predators
Birds, larger insects, and other predatory animals may prey upon Liturgusidae mantises.
Ecosystem Role
Predators of other insects, contributing to the balance of the insect population in their ecosystems.
Collecting Methods
- Hand collection
- Sweep netting
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol preservation
- Arachnoid taxidermy techniques
Evolution
Liturgusidae was classified within the superfamily Acanthopoidea, with revisions in genera and familial placement occurring due to phylogenetic studies.
Similar Taxa
- Mantidae
- Nanomantidae
- Dactylopterygidae
Misconceptions
Some may confuse Liturgusidae mantises with other mantids due to similar appearance, but they can be distinguished by habitat preferences and morphology.
Tags
- mantises
- Liturgusidae
- neotropical
- Acanthopoidea
- insects