Iris oratoria, known by the common name Mediterranean mantis (or less frequently iris mantis), due to humans first studying it in lands around the Mediterranean Sea, is a species of praying mantis. Its range is expanding in the Middle East, Western Asia, and Greece.
I. oratoria is very pale when young but matures to grass green, and grows to about 2.5 inches long (6.5 cm). The species may be distinguished from Mantis religiosa and other mantids with which it shares a range and general size and shape by the red-orange spot on the ventral side of the fourth (second to last) abdominal segment; also, its cerci are shorter than those of M. religiosa.
Food - this Mantis waits for their meals; The meal must come within reach. Flies are the best food source, active insects such as weevils make great snacks, too. Most adult females really like meal worms, and Blue bottle flies, etc. These are great beneficial insects for patrolling your indoor and outdoor gardens. Selling as Nymphs; due to hatch early part of December.
Water - The this mantis cage needs misting every other day, and is able to live in 60% humidity.
Housing - Temperature ranging from room temperature into the low 80 degrees, although they are quite forgiving. This mantis cannot be housed together as cannibalism is always possible. Have enough food and perching places available.Difficulty - Not a hard species to have at all, and the camouflage is unbelievable! Captive bred.
Summary - Incredible appearance, and highly cannibalistic as they may consume each other even when they are well fed. So, not a beginner mantid.
Mantids are shipped with a quart container and lid for you to add a a branch or a plastic plant. Small live plants may be used, too. Design it to be easy to clean and easy for the Mantis to find and catch food.
Mantis must be shipped Express for live arrival guarantee.
Selling as Nymphs.
