Harabiro Mantis (Hierodula patellifera) — identification, habitat & look-alikes

The Harabiro Mantis is a green or brown Asian mantis with a broad abdomen and a small white spot on each forewing. It catches other insects with its spined front legs.

Appearance

Appearance: Adults are about 1.8–3.3 in (45–85 mm) long. They may be green or brown, with a broad abdomen and a small white spot on each forewing.

Look-alikes

purple-winged mantisTenodera australasiae

The purple-winged mantis has a longer, slimmer body. The Harabiro Mantis has a shorter chest, a broader abdomen, and a small white spot on each forewing.

Why they get mixed upBoth introduced mantises have been recorded on Maui.

Where it lives

Typical habitats: shrubland near Kahului Airport, Maui
Range: This Asian mantis has been recorded in Hawaii, including Maui and Kahoʻolawe, where it is introduced.

Behavior

Diet: and adults are that seize other insects with their spined front legs.
Activity: It raises its front legs and waits until prey is close enough for a rapid strike.

Name and classification

About the name: This species includes H. p. patellifera and a Daito Islands , H. p. daitoana. It is also called the giant Asian mantis.

Conservation

IUCN Red List: NENot EvaluatedNot yet assessed

15 sources