| Choeradodis stalii | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Arthropoda |
| Class: | Insecta |
| Order: | Mantodea |
| Family: | Mantidae |
| Genus: | Choeradodis |
| Species: | C. stalii |
| Binomial name | |
| Choeradodis stalii Wood-Mason 1880 |
|
Choeradodis stalii is a species of praying mantis with common names that include Tropical Shield Mantis, Hooded Mantis, and Leaf Mantis.[1][2] It is found in Brazil, Ecuador, French Guyana, Panama, and Peru.[3]
As described by one insect-breeding hobbyist, this species:
...is one of the most impressive of all mimic species. It takes the form of a leaf one step further than any other species, and has the largest hood of all leaf species. They take the form of a flat stance, and spend most of their time low-lying, to help blend in with their background. This mantis species is rare in captivity, and only experienced breeders will have these available/have reared them successfully in the past.[4]
Nymphs of this species are born with a bright red color distinguishing it from other Choeradodis. Even at early instars, it displays somewhat of a hood. Each time the mantis moults, it grows more greenish and the hood grows larger until it reaches adulthood.[5]