Wandering Violin Mantis
Gongylus gongylodes or the Wandering Violin Mantis is an amazing species of mantis that has long appendages to mimic leaves and sticks. they originate from India and Sri Lanka. They get their name from the unique shape of their head and neck that resembles the top of a violin. They are another species that is not very easy to keep but are well worth it.
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 Red Runner 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.
