Anasigerpes bifasciata Care Guide: Two-striped Mantis

Welcome to Praying Mantis World! Here’s your ultimate care guide for the fascinating Two-striped Mantis (Anasigerpes bifasciata).

General Information

• Scientific Name: Anasigerpes bifasciata

• Common Name: Two-striped Mantis

• Origin: Native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Africa.

• Lifespan: Typically 6 to 12 months.

• Size: Females can grow up to 5 cm (2 inches), while males are slightly smaller at around 4 cm (1.6 inches).

Enclosure Requirements

• Enclosure Size: A well-ventilated terrarium with dimensions at least three times the mantis's body length in height and twice its body length in width and depth.

• Substrate: Use moisture-retaining substrates such as coconut fiber, peat moss, or a mix of soil and sand.

• Decor: Include twigs, branches, and plants to replicate their natural habitat. Ensure plenty of vertical climbing spaces.

• Humidity: Maintain humidity levels between 60-80%. Lightly mist the enclosure 2-3 times a week.

• Temperature: Ideal temperatures range between 24-28°C (75-82°F) during the day, with slightly cooler temperatures at night.

Feeding

• Diet: Feed your mantis a variety of live insects. Recommended options include:

  • Fruit flies (Drosophila species) for nymphs.

  • Blue bottle flies (Calliphora vomitoria).

  • Waxworms (Achroia grisella) - offer sparingly due to high-fat content.

  • Moths.

  • Roaches (such as Dubia roaches).

• Feeding Frequency: Young nymphs should be fed daily, while adults can be fed every 2-3 days. Always remove uneaten prey to avoid stress and potential harm to your mantis.

• Hydration: Mantises typically get moisture from their prey and the enclosure’s humidity. Occasionally mist the enclosure lightly.

Molting

• Signs of Molting: Before molting, mantids will stop eating and become less active, often hanging upside down.

• Molting Conditions: Ensure adequate vertical space and maintain high humidity to facilitate a successful molt.

• Post-Molt Care: Avoid handling or feeding your mantis for at least 24 hours post-molt to allow the exoskeleton to harden.

Handling

• Handling Tips: Limit handling to minimize stress. Mantises are delicate and should be handled with care.

• Handling Method: Gently coax the mantis onto your hand using a soft brush or your fingers. Avoid sudden movements.

Breeding

• Sexing: Females are larger with wider abdomens, while males are slimmer with longer antennae.

• Breeding Setup: Introduce the male into the female’s enclosure with caution, ensuring plenty of space and hiding spots to reduce cannibalism risk.

• Post-Mating Care: Remove the male after mating to prevent him from being eaten. Females will lay oothecae (egg cases), which should be kept at 24-26°C (75-79°F) with 60-80% humidity for successful hatching.

Health and Maintenance

• Cleaning: Spot clean the enclosure regularly and conduct a thorough cleaning every few weeks to prevent mold and bacteria buildup.

• Health Monitoring: Watch for signs of dehydration (shriveled appearance) or molting issues (incomplete molts). Adjust humidity and temperature as needed.

• Pests and Diseases: Ensure feeder insects are healthy and free from parasites. Avoid using wild-caught insects to reduce the risk of introducing pests or diseases.

Observing Behavior

• Behavior: Two-striped Mantises are active hunters with a unique appearance, characterized by the two distinct stripes on their bodies. They are agile and fascinating to observe, especially during hunting.

By following this care guide, you can create a thriving environment for your Anasigerpes bifasciata. Enjoy the captivating world of the Two-striped Mantis!