Invertebrate · Mantis
African mantis care guide
Sphodromantis lineola
The african mantis is a beginner-level mantis from Central and West Africa. Adults reach Body 7–9 cm and live 9–12 months in captivity. One of the hardiest beginner mantids; tolerates a wide range of conditions.
- Enclosure 20 × 20 × 30 cm
- Temp 24–30°C
- Humidity 40–60%
How much does a african mantis cost in Canada?
African mantis quick facts
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Adult size
- Body 7–9 cm
- Lifespan
- 9–12 months
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- Central and West Africa
- Minimum enclosure
- 20 × 20 × 30 cm (8 × 8 × 12 in, ≈ 3 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- 24–30°C
- Humidity
- 40–60%
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Insectivore – crickets, roaches, flies
- Bioactive style
- Arboreal insect
African mantis enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 20 × 20 × 30 cm (8 × 8 × 12 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a arboreal insect bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Premium Coconut Fiber3 cm
A thin, moisture-holding floor layer keeps humidity up. Leave at least twice the insect’s length of clear space below perches for moulting.
Temperature: 24–30°C. Humidity: 40–60%. UVB: Not needed.
What does a african mantis eat?
Insectivore – crickets, roaches, flies. Feed every 2–3 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Bold and handleable once used to hands.
Health watch: Overfeeding and failed moults from lack of height.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Mist lightly (species dependent) and check food plants are fresh.
Weekly
- Replace food plants; remove frass and old leaves.
Monthly
- Wipe mesh and check for mites.
Yearly
- Replace the floor layer between generations.
Recommended for a african mantis bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (20 × 20 × 30 cm).
African mantis FAQ
Is the african mantis good for beginners?
Yes – the african mantis is a good choice for beginners. Bold and handleable once used to hands.
What size enclosure does a african mantis need?
At least 20 × 20 × 30 cm (about 8 × 8 × 12 inches, roughly 3 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a african mantis cost in Canada?
Typically $20–40 CAD to buy, about $120–240 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $30–50 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a african mantis need?
Temperature: 24–30°C. Humidity: 40–60%.
What does a african mantis eat?
Insectivore – crickets, roaches, flies. Feed every 2–3 days.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.