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What are orchid mantises? Like other praying mantises, the orchid mantis, Hymenopus coronatus, is a generalist predator that uses its raptorial forelimbs to grasp prey. However, their unique appearance sets them apart from other mantises, which are often brown or green. The exoskeleton of the orchid mantis’ four hind legs expands outwards forming broad ‘femoral lobes’ that resemble fl ower petals. The orchid mantis thus looks remarkably like a white fl ower blossom. This resemblance is most apparent in juvenile orchid mantises that have yet to develop wings. |
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