Invertebrate · Mantis
Chinese mantis care guide
Tenodera sinensis
The chinese mantis is a beginner-level mantis from East Asia (introduced in North America). Adults reach Body 8–11 cm and live 6–12 months in captivity. Solitary.
- Enclosure 20 × 20 × 30 cm
- Temp 22–28°C
- Humidity 50–60%
How much does a chinese mantis cost in Canada?
Chinese mantis quick facts
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Adult size
- Body 8–11 cm
- Lifespan
- 6–12 months
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- East Asia (introduced in North America)
- Minimum enclosure
- 20 × 20 × 30 cm (8 × 8 × 12 in, ≈ 3 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- 22–28°C
- Humidity
- 50–60%
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Insectivore – crickets, flies, moths
- Bioactive style
- Arboreal insect
Chinese 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: 22–28°C. Humidity: 50–60%. UVB: Not needed.
What does a chinese mantis eat?
Insectivore – crickets, flies, moths. Feed adults every 2–3 days with appropriately sized insects.
Handling, temperament & health
Bold and handleable once used to hands.
Health watch: Failed moults if the enclosure is too short for hanging.
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 chinese mantis bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (20 × 20 × 30 cm).
Chinese mantis FAQ
Is the chinese mantis good for beginners?
Yes – the chinese mantis is a good choice for beginners. Bold and handleable once used to hands.
What size enclosure does a chinese 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 chinese mantis cost in Canada?
Typically $10–30 CAD to buy, about $120–240 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $30–60 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a chinese mantis need?
Temperature: 22–28°C. Humidity: 50–60%.
What does a chinese mantis eat?
Insectivore – crickets, flies, moths. Feed adults every 2–3 days with appropriately sized insects.
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.