Invertebrate · Mantis
Giant shield mantis care guide
Rhombodera basalis
The giant shield mantis is a beginner-level mantis from Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia. Adults reach Body 8–9 cm and live 8–12 months in captivity. Hardy, large mantis with a wide leaf-like shield; a good beginner giant.
- Enclosure 30 × 30 × 45 cm
- Temp 24–28°C
- Humidity 50–70%
How much does a giant shield mantis cost in Canada?
Giant shield mantis quick facts
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Adult size
- Body 8–9 cm
- Lifespan
- 8–12 months
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia
- Minimum enclosure
- 30 × 30 × 45 cm (12 × 12 × 18 in, ≈ 11 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- 24–28°C
- Humidity
- 50–70%
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Insectivore – crickets, roaches, flies
- Bioactive style
- Arboreal insect
Giant shield mantis enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 30 × 30 × 45 cm (12 × 12 × 18 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: 24–28°C. Humidity: 50–70%. UVB: Not needed.
What does a giant shield mantis eat?
Insectivore – crickets, roaches, flies. Feed every 2–3 days with appropriately sized insects.
Handling, temperament & health
Bold and handleable; strong grasp.
Health watch: Failed moults from low humidity or 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 giant shield mantis bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (30 × 30 × 45 cm).
Giant shield mantis FAQ
Is the giant shield mantis good for beginners?
Yes – the giant shield mantis is a good choice for beginners. Bold and handleable; strong grasp.
What size enclosure does a giant shield mantis need?
At least 30 × 30 × 45 cm (about 12 × 12 × 18 inches, roughly 11 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a giant shield mantis cost in Canada?
Typically $30–60 CAD to buy, about $140–280 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $30–60 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a giant shield mantis need?
Temperature: 24–28°C. Humidity: 50–70%.
What does a giant shield mantis eat?
Insectivore – crickets, roaches, flies. Feed 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.