Mantises

Diversity and distribution

The insect class Mantodea, commonly known as praying mantises, is a group of predatory insects consisting of over 2,400 known species. These insects are characterized by their elongated bodies, raptorial front legs, and large, triangular heads with highly mobile eyes. 

Mantodea insects can be found in a wide range of countries across the globe, primarily in tropical and subtropical regions. Their distribution extends across parts of North and South America, Africa, Asia, and Australia. Praying mantises typically inhabit a range of environments, including forests, grasslands, and even urban areas.

Life cycles of Mantodea

The life cycle of praying mantises consists of three stages: egg, nymph, and adult. The duration of each stage varies among species and can be influenced by factors such as temperature and humidity.

Female mantises lay their eggs in a protective case called an ootheca, which is typically attached to a plant or other substrate. Upon hatching, the nymphs closely resemble the adult form but are smaller and lack fully developed wings. As they grow, nymphs undergo multiple molts before ultimately reaching adulthood. Adult praying mantises are predators, feeding on a variety of insects and occasionally small vertebrates.

Mantodea and fly fishing

Mantodea insects are not typically considered a primary food source for fish, and their relevance to fly fishing is limited. However, their presence near water sources may occasionally make them a target for some fish species. Although Mantis patterns are not produced on a large scale that other more common flies are, you can find them if you search for 'Praying Mantis' or just 'Mantis' flies.