- Author: Launa Herrmann
Recently, I learned about a cleverly disguised predator of pollinators. In fact, both the bee and the butterfly easily succumb to its charms. This insect, commonly referred to as the orchid mantis (Hymenopus coronatus), is native to Asia's southeastern rainforests, primarily Indonesia and Malaysia.
In my own garden, I'm always on the lookout for a praying mantis (mantis religiosa). I find this insect fascinating with its ability to change color and a name derived from the “prayer posture” it assumes as if its hands are folded in gratitude for each meal. Yesterday, after I discovered one clinging to the support stake I had hammered next to a dahlia, I couldn't help but wonder how many butterflies and bees this local “impersonator of plant stems” had devoured that day.
A couple tidbits about this family of camouflaged Carnivora include:
- Adult females are known to eat the male during and after mating
- The mantis is equipped with a triangular head that rotates 180 degrees to scan its surrounding for prey.
- An orchid mantis is known to attract more pollinators than flowers since its color is indistinguishable from the 13 species of wildflowers in its natural habitat according to biologist James O'Hanlow at Macquaire University in Sydney, Australia.
- The front legs of the orchid mantis are toothed in shape yet cleverly disguised as the inviting petals of a flower.
To view additional photos and learn more about the orchid mantis, visit these websites: