Ghost Mantis - Phyllocrania paradoxa

Ghost Mantis (Phyllocrania paradoxa) – The ultimate master of dead-leaf camouflage

Are you looking for an extraordinary praying mantis that looks like it was plucked straight from a forest floor? The Ghost Mantis (Phyllocrania paradoxa), also known as the Ghost Mantis, is native to Madagascar and Africa. Thanks to the asymmetrical crest on its head, jagged contours, and dead-leaf colors, it blends in perfectly among fallen leaves and twigs!

Behavior: Calm 'sit-and-wait' hunter

Unlike active hunters, the Ghost Mantis is a patient ambush predator. Relying on its camouflage, it sits perfectly still until a flying insect passes by, only to strike with lightning speed using its powerful raptorial forelegs! They have a gentle and sometimes somewhat shy nature. When feeding with large tweezers, they may be momentarily startled; patience is the key to success.

Unique capability for communal housing

What makes Phyllocrania paradoxa truly special in the praying mantis hobby is its minimal cannibalism. This is one of the very rare species that—provided there is always sufficient food present and the enclosure is spacious enough—can be successfully kept in groups! A large terrarium full of branches and dried leaves with multiple specimens offers a breathtaking spectacle.

Care and Environmental Requirements

Ghost Mantises grow to approximately 5 cm in length and thrive best at a temperature of about 26 °C (ranging between 20 °C and 30 °C, with a minimum of 18 °C at night). They require relatively high humidity (60% to 90%), which is easily achieved by light misting about 5 times a week. A terrarium of at least 20 x 20 x 30 cm provides ample space for perches and hiding spots.

Diet

In nature, they mainly eat flying insects such as fruit flies and houseflies. Crickets (for example, size 6 or 7) are also readily eaten. Note: ensure that no loose crickets are left in the enclosure when the mantis is about to molt, as the mantis is very vulnerable at that time.

Key benefits at a glance:

• Unique Dead-Leaf Camouflage: Alien-like appearance with a 'crinkled' head.
• Suitable for Communal Housing: Very low risk of cannibalism if fed sufficiently.
• Calm Nature: Simple and relaxing to observe.
• Ideal Beginner Species: Hardy, easy-to-care-for mantis.
• Supplied at L7 (Sub-adult) Stage: Nearly mature mantis.

Product Specifications:

• Species: Phyllocrania paradoxa (Ghost Mantis)
• Size at delivery: Stage L7
• Adult size: Approx. 5 cm
• Temperature: 20 °C - 30 °C (ideal daytime temperature 26 °C)
• Humidity: 60% - 90% (mist approx. 5x per week)
• Diet: Flies (fruit flies/houseflies), small crickets
• Housing: Individually or in a group (with sufficient space and food)

Bring one of the most beautiful praying mantises in the world into your home. Order the Ghost Mantis today!