Invertebrates
Spiny Flower Mantis
Pseudocreobotra wahlbergii · also called African flower mantis
Resembling a pale, delicate flower petal, a young spiny flower mantis nymph waits motionless for an unsuspecting insect to land nearby, ready to flash a startling eyespot display should a predator notice it first.
Overview
The spiny flower mantis, Pseudocreobotra wahlbergii, is native to savanna and forest habitat across parts of southern Africa. Its bold eyespot startle display, flower-mimicking nymphs, and small spiny body projections make it one of the most visually striking and tactically clever small mantis species found in Africa.
Two disguises for two very different purposes
The spiny flower mantis’s flower-like nymph colouring serves to attract unsuspecting prey, while its adult eyespot display works in the opposite direction, deliberately drawing attention to startle away a predator rather than hiding from one.
Status
Not Evaluated for conservation status, found across suitable habitat throughout its range in southern Africa.
Spiny Flower Mantis: common questions
What is the spiny flower mantis's eyespot display for?
It carries a striking eyespot pattern on the wings that it suddenly flashes open when threatened, startling a potential predator and buying a moment to escape.
Why do young spiny flower mantises look like flowers?
Nymphs show pale, petal-like colouring that mimics a flower, a disguise that both hides them from predators and lures unsuspecting insects close enough to be ambushed.
How does the spiny flower mantis catch its food?
It is an ambush predator, remaining motionless and waiting for small flying insects such as flies and moths to come within striking range.
Where is the spiny flower mantis found?
It is native to savanna and forest habitat across parts of southern Africa.