Orchid Mantis, or Hymenopus coronatus, is a beautiful pink and white mantis with lobes on its legs that look like flower pentals. Although this species does not live on orchids, it does look remarkably well like a flower or orchid.
This species is very popular and loved as a pet because of its beautiful bright colors and amazing camouflage. In the wild Hymenopus coronatus is found in Malaysia.
Appearance of the Orchid Mantis
The orchid mantis is white with soft or bright pink accents. Some individuals are completely white, others completely pink and yet others are somewhat of a mix.
One mantis can change color in a matter of days, depending on the environmental conditions like humidity and light conditions.
This species has lobes on its legs that mimic flower petals. Its natural habitat consists of white and pink flowers in bushes and small trees. In this way the mantis can remain unseen for predators such as birds and at the same time can catch pollinating insects that are attracted to the flowers.
