Invertebrate · Mantis
Texas unicorn mantis care guide
Phyllovates chlorophaea
The texas unicorn mantis is a intermediate-level mantis from Texas, Mexico, Central America. Adults reach Body 7–10 cm and live 8–12 months in captivity. Distinctive horned head; give tall mesh space and flying prey.
- Enclosure 30 × 30 × 45 cm
- Temp 24–30°C
- Humidity 50–60%
How much does a texas unicorn mantis cost in Canada?
Texas unicorn mantis quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- Body 7–10 cm
- Lifespan
- 8–12 months
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- Texas, Mexico, Central America
- Minimum enclosure
- 30 × 30 × 45 cm (12 × 12 × 18 in, ≈ 11 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- 24–30°C
- Humidity
- 50–60%
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Insectivore – flies, moths, crickets
- Bioactive style
- Arboreal insect
Texas unicorn 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: 24–30°C. Humidity: 50–60%. UVB: Not needed.
What does a texas unicorn mantis eat?
Insectivore – flies, moths, crickets. Feed every 2–3 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Calm and handleable.
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 texas unicorn mantis bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (30 × 30 × 45 cm).
Texas unicorn mantis FAQ
Is the texas unicorn mantis good for beginners?
The texas unicorn mantis is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Calm and handleable.
What size enclosure does a texas unicorn 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 texas unicorn mantis cost in Canada?
Typically $40–80 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 texas unicorn mantis need?
Temperature: 24–30°C. Humidity: 50–60%.
What does a texas unicorn mantis eat?
Insectivore – flies, moths, crickets. 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.