Spiny Flower MantisPseudocreobotra wahlbergi
Quick facts
- Rarity
- Legendary
- Active during
- Morning
- Found in
- Strawbend Fields
- Length
- 1.8 in
- Wingspan
- 3 in
From the field notes
Diet
This mantis looks exactly like a white and pink flower resting on a branch, a camouflage it uses for feeding. Instead of hunting, it patiently waits for nectar-seeking bees and flies to land right in its lap.
Defense
When startled, it throws its front arms up and fans out its wings to reveal giant, bright yellow spiral 'eyes.' This sudden display makes a tiny, harmless insect look like a massive, intimidating predator.
Cannibals
They are highly cannibalistic, meaning if two cross paths, the larger one will almost certainly eat the smaller one. Even tiny, newly hatched nymphs will start hunting their own siblings if other prey isn't available.
Nymphs
Before they grow their gorgeous wings, the babies (called nymphs) hatch looking like tiny, spiky black ants. They mimic the erratic movements of ants as a way to avoid being eaten by spiders while they are young.
Field Marks
This mantis earned its name because its abdomen and body margins are covered in tiny, jagged spines. These spines provide physical protection while mimicking the edges of thorny stems and flower buds.