Mantid nymph (?sp)
   

Actual size 25mm, Queensland Australia

Canon EOS 300D and MP-E 65mm, f/14, 1/200 with fill in flash

A mantid nymph (identified as such due to the curved abdomen and lack of wings).  Photograph demonstrates well the modified grasping claws.  This mantid was almost impossible to spot due to it's exact match in colour with it's surroundings.

Note the two modified front legs which serve as raptorial claws. The prothorax is elongated, and the insect is able to move its head multiple planes of freedom. Mantids are almost entirely visual hunters, and are one of the most aggressive predators of the insect world; attacking and subduing prey three times their size.


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