Chinese Mantis
Tenodera sinensis or commonly called the Chinese Mantis originated in Asia but has been introduced into many parts of the world including the United States. Ootheca from this species is often sold for pest control. However they are an introduced species that directly competes with native species and can harm native ecosystems. These are a large and impressive species to keep as they reach over 5 inches in length.
Feeding
Flying insects are the preferred source of food. As nymphs fruit flies are the ideal food source and increase to house flies and blue/green bottle flies as they get larger. They also will enjoy moths or other harmless flying insects. It’s recommended that the size of the feeder insect does not exceed 1/2 the mantis length.
Adults can eat crickets or roaches however they don’t often climb up high enough to where the mantis is hiding and go uneaten. Most pet stores sell fruit flies and wax worms that can be grown into moths. Larger flies can found easily from online suppliers or sometimes from bait shops.
