Mantinae

Mantinae

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Mantinae: /ˈmæntɪˌniː/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Tenodera angustipennis young nymph 2 by Daniel Ballmer. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Statilia maculata (22444282321) by harum.koh from Kobe city, Japan. Used under a CC BY-SA 2.0 license.
Tenodera angustipennis Saussure(Pregnant) DSCN9576 by Yasunori Koide. Used under a CC BY-SA 3.0 license.
Mantis egg mass on black wood stake - 1 by KKPCW. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Statilia maculata (6347174249) by Len Worthington. Used under a CC BY-SA 2.0 license.
Europäische Gottesanbeterin Mantis religiosa Gelege by Holger Krisp. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Summary

Mantinae is a subfamily of praying mantids known for their predatory behavior and distinctive appearance. While they are non-native to many areas in North America, they play vital roles in their ecosystems.

Physical Characteristics

Members of Mantinae are characterized by their elongated bodies and distinct triangular heads. They have large compound eyes and raptorial front legs adapted for catching prey.

Identification Tips

Look for the characteristic 'praying' posture; the mantids extend their forelegs as if in prayer. Identifying features include the shape and size of the head, length of the antennae, and coloration.

Habitat

Widespread in various habitats including gardens, forests, and grasslands.

Distribution

Mantinae is widespread in North America and contains around 30 species native to the Old World.

Diet

Primarily carnivorous, feeding on a variety of insects and sometimes small vertebrates.

Life Cycle

Mantinae undergo complete metamorphosis, consisting of egg, nymph, and adult stages.

Reproduction

Typically, females are larger than males; mating usually occurs in late summer to autumn. Egg cases, or oothecae, are laid in the fall.

Predators

Birds, small mammals, and other larger predatory insects.

Ecosystem Role

As predators, they help control pest populations.

Cultural Significance

Praying mantids are often observed in gardens and have cultural significance in various societies as omens or symbols.

Collecting Methods

  • Hand collecting
  • Using nets to catch during flights
  • Setting traps with bait

Preservation Methods

  • Pinning
  • Drying
  • Alcohol preservation

Evolution

Mantinae evolved as part of the larger order Mantodea which first appeared during the Late Triassic period, with Mantidae being one of the oldest mantid families.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Praying mantids are often thought to be harmless, but some species can eat small birds or lizards.

Tags

  • Mantinae
  • Praying Mantis
  • Insects
  • Mantidae
  • Predatory Insects