Invertebrate · Mantis
Wandering violin mantis care guide
Gongylus gongylodes
The wandering violin mantis is a advanced-level mantis from India, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia. Adults reach Body 8–10 cm and live 8–12 months in captivity. Unusually tolerant of its own kind; give warmth, airflow and plenty of flies.
- Enclosure 30 × 30 × 45 cm
- Temp 25–35°C
- Humidity 40–60%
How much does a wandering violin mantis cost in Canada?
Wandering violin mantis quick facts
- Skill level
- Advanced
- Adult size
- Body 8–10 cm
- Lifespan
- 8–12 months
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- India, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia
- Minimum enclosure
- 30 × 30 × 45 cm (12 × 12 × 18 in, ≈ 11 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- 25–35°C
- Humidity
- 40–60%
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Insectivore – flying insects (flies, moths)
- Bioactive style
- Arboreal insect
Wandering violin 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: 25–35°C. Humidity: 40–60%. UVB: Not needed.
What does a wandering violin mantis eat?
Insectivore – flying insects (flies, moths). Feed flying insects every 2–3 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Docile and can be kept in small groups if well fed.
Health watch: Moult failures from excess humidity; keep well ventilated and warm.
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 wandering violin mantis bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (30 × 30 × 45 cm).
Wandering violin mantis FAQ
Is the wandering violin mantis good for beginners?
The wandering violin mantis is an advanced species – best for experienced keepers. Docile and can be kept in small groups if well fed.
What size enclosure does a wandering violin 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 wandering violin mantis cost in Canada?
Typically $80–200 CAD to buy, about $140–280 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $40–80 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a wandering violin mantis need?
Temperature: 25–35°C. Humidity: 40–60%.
What does a wandering violin mantis eat?
Insectivore – flying insects (flies, moths). Feed flying insects 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.