Wooden Mantis - Darakchyl Batatchy
Tree Mantis - Hierodula tenuidentata Sauss.
The tree mantis is very similar to the common mantis. This species can be distinguished primarily by the presence of a sharp opaque white spot on each forewing. In the common mantis, this spot (stigma) is not pronounced and is light green. The tree mantis, as its name suggests, is associated with woody and shrubby vegetation and is most often found in river floodplains, climbing high into the mountains — up to 1700 m above sea level. The hatching of larvae begins in mid-May and occurs with 8 molts.
Adult mantises live for about 55-60 days. The tree mantis is one of the most voracious species we have. Its young larvae feed on aphids, while adult forms consume various large insects: bugs, dipterans, and especially orthopterans. Sometimes in thickets, this species can be found in very large numbers — up to 50 specimens on a single tree. It has been estimated that in such cases, the mantises sitting on the tree destroy insects and other animals weighing a total of 1150–1300 g during their development period.
The tree mantis is a daytime predator. Remaining motionless, it can sit for hours with its front legs raised and extended, as if in prayer. One can only envy its patience and cunning. Mantises have a notch on their front femur, into which the tibia can fit like a pocket knife blade. The mantis usually does not actively seek out prey but stands in a very original pose. Upon detecting prey, it approaches it almost imperceptibly and catches the insect with a lightning-fast movement. With its front legs, it can grasp the prey, closing them like scissors.
In some countries, there was once a folk belief: a person upon whom a mantis accidentally lands is considered lucky. In ancient times, competitions were held between mantises; and fights between them attracted no fewer spectators than cockfights.
The mantis is undemanding in captivity, and if placed on window curtains, it eagerly catches houseflies that fly in through the open window or vent. It is fascinating to watch as it skillfully catches prey in mid-air. However, the mantis does not live long and perishes with the onset of winter, leaving behind eggs.
Distribution: Western Tien Shan, Northern Tien Shan, Pre-Fergana regions of Kyrgyzstan
Insects of Kyrgyzstan
