Stagmomantis

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Stagmomantis: /stæɡmoʊˈmæntɪs/

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Summary

Stagmomantis is a genus of mantis with 22 species recognized in the Americas. Characterized by size variations between sexes and a range of habitats from arid to tropical environments.

Physical Characteristics

Medium sized, generally measuring around four to six centimeters; females are larger than males. Coloration can vary, presenting mixes of green, brown, and gray. Males have noticeably larger wings than females, despite females being larger in overall body size.

Identification Tips

Facial shield is long and narrow; in males, it is about three times as wide as long, and at least twice as wide as long in females. First hind tarsomere is relatively shorter and stouter than in Mantis and Tenodera.

Habitat

Found throughout North and South America in a variety of habitats including grasslands, deserts, rainforests, and urban environments.

Distribution

Ranges from around 40° N in the United States to 8° S in Brazil; primarily neotropical.

Diet

Carnivorous; feeds on various insects and other small prey.

Life Cycle

Specific life cycle details are not provided, but like other mantids, they undergo incomplete metamorphosis with multiple nymph stages leading to adulthood.

Reproduction

Typical of mantids, involves male courtship displays and potential sexual cannibalism; females are larger and may consume males after mating.

Predators

Birds, larger insects, and other predators may prey on Stagmomantis species due to their moderate size.

Ecosystem Role

As predators, they help control insect populations, playing a significant role in their ecosystems.

Evolution

Stagmomantis represents the only genus of the subfamily Stagmomantinae in its geographical range.

Similar Taxa

• Mantis
• Tenodera

Tags

• mantis
• Stagmomantis
• insect
• entomology