Invertebrate · Mantis
Orchid mantis care guide
Hymenopus coronatus
The orchid mantis is a intermediate-level mantis from Southeast Asia. Adults reach Body 2.5 cm (male) to 6–7 cm (female) and live 6–9 months in captivity. Always solitary (cannibalistic). Mesh enclosure with good ventilation.
- Enclosure 20 × 20 × 30 cm
- Temp 25–30°C
- Humidity 60–70%
How much does a orchid mantis cost in Canada?
Orchid mantis quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- Body 2.5 cm (male) to 6–7 cm (female)
- Lifespan
- 6–9 months
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- Southeast Asia
- Minimum enclosure
- 20 × 20 × 30 cm (8 × 8 × 12 in, ≈ 3 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- 25–30°C
- Humidity
- 60–70%
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Insectivore – flies, small moths, fruit flies for nymphs
- Bioactive style
- Arboreal insect
Orchid 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: 25–30°C. Humidity: 60–70%. UVB: Not needed.
What does a orchid mantis eat?
Insectivore – flies, small moths, fruit flies for nymphs. Feed flying insects every 2–3 days; nymphs need fruit flies daily.
Handling, temperament & health
Calm and can walk onto a hand, but fragile.
Health watch: Failed moults from low humidity or poor ventilation.
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 orchid mantis bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (20 × 20 × 30 cm).
Orchid mantis FAQ
Is the orchid mantis good for beginners?
The orchid mantis is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Calm and can walk onto a hand, but fragile.
What size enclosure does a orchid 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 orchid mantis cost in Canada?
Typically $40–90 CAD to buy, about $120–240 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $40–80 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a orchid mantis need?
Temperature: 25–30°C. Humidity: 60–70%.
What does a orchid mantis eat?
Insectivore – flies, small moths, fruit flies for nymphs. Feed flying insects every 2–3 days; nymphs need fruit flies daily.
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.