Invertebrate · Mantis
Spiny flower mantis care guide
Pseudocreobotra wahlbergii
The spiny flower mantis is a intermediate-level mantis from Southern and East Africa. Adults reach Body 3–4 cm and live 6–9 months in captivity. Solitary.
- Enclosure 20 × 20 × 30 cm
- Temp 25–30°C
- Humidity 50–60%
How much does a spiny flower mantis cost in Canada?
Spiny flower mantis quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- Body 3–4 cm
- Lifespan
- 6–9 months
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- Southern and East Africa
- Minimum enclosure
- 20 × 20 × 30 cm (8 × 8 × 12 in, ≈ 3 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- 25–30°C
- Humidity
- 50–60%
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Insectivore – flying insects, fruit flies for nymphs
- Bioactive style
- Arboreal insect
Spiny flower 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: 50–60%. UVB: Not needed.
What does a spiny flower mantis eat?
Insectivore – flying insects, fruit flies for nymphs. Feed every 2–3 days with flies or small moths.
Handling, temperament & health
Small and gentle; handle carefully.
Health watch: Needs good ventilation to avoid respiratory and moult problems.
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 spiny flower mantis bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (20 × 20 × 30 cm).
Spiny flower mantis FAQ
Is the spiny flower mantis good for beginners?
The spiny flower mantis is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Small and gentle; handle carefully.
What size enclosure does a spiny flower 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 spiny flower mantis cost in Canada?
Typically $40–80 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 spiny flower mantis need?
Temperature: 25–30°C. Humidity: 50–60%.
What does a spiny flower mantis eat?
Insectivore – flying insects, fruit flies for nymphs. Feed every 2–3 days with flies or small moths.
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.