Praying Mantis The Hunter or The Hunted? -Mrs. Greiner November 10, 2008

Classification  Invertebrate – Has an exoskeleton – no backbone  Insect – Has 6 legs, antennae, 3 main body parts, 2 compound eyes and wings  Carnivore – preys on other insects (meat) insects (meat)

Main Ecosystem : Grasslands, Temperate Forests & Rain Forests Various Habitats  Trees  Brush piles  Fields  Shrubs  Porches & Decks  Gardens

Animal Needs: Food, Water, Shelter & Space Mantids get water from the insects they eat – not a water source. They prey on and even stalk other insects, such as bees, moths, grasshoppers and more. They don’t usually eat the wings. They can not survive harsh winters – so they need moderate temperatures. The Praying Mantis uses camouflage to hide from their prey; therefore, they need to live in areas with vegetation.

Food Chain Energy transfers from the sun to the producer. Then from the producer to the first level consumer (the bee). Next from the bee to a 2 nd level consumer (the praying mantis). Finally from the mantid to a 3 rd level consumer (the bat). Food Web A diagram that shows the relationships between different food chains in an ecosystem.

Mantid Behaviors Adaptations   The front legs are equipped with rows of sharp spikes that the mantis uses to hold its prey.   A mantis will rear up on its hind legs and wave it heavily armed limbs at its attacker.   Some have brightly colored wings that they unfold to intimidate their attacker. Mantis eats a leaf bug.  Camouflage (greatest adaptation) – Some are green to blend in with the leaves, brown to blend in with the branches they live on and some are even lilac colored to look like the orchid flower.