Archimantis facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Archimantis |
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| A large brown mantis, Archimantis latistyla | |
Scientific classification  |
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| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Arthropoda |
| Class: | Insecta |
| Order: | Mantodea |
| Family: | Mantidae |
| Tribe: | Archimantini |
| Genus: | Archimantis Saussure, 1869 |
| Species | |
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See text |
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| Synonyms | |
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Rheomantis Giglio-Tos, 1917 |
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Archimantis is a special group of praying mantises that live only in Australia. These amazing insects are quite large, growing from about 150 millimeters (6 inches) to 180 millimeters (7 inches) long. That's about the length of a typical pencil! When they are fully grown, they can be very good hunters.
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What are Archimantis Mantises?
Archimantis mantises are part of a bigger family called praying mantises. They get their name "praying mantis" because of how they hold their front legs. They keep them folded in a way that looks like they are praying. But don't be fooled, these legs are actually very strong and perfect for catching their prey!
Where Do They Live?
All species of Archimantis mantises are found in Australia. They live in different habitats across the continent, from forests to grasslands. Australia is home to many unique insects, and these mantises are a great example.
How Big Are They?
Archimantis mantises are known for their impressive size. Imagine a mantis that can be as long as your hand! Their large size helps them to catch bigger insects and sometimes even small lizards or frogs. They are among the largest praying mantises in the world.
What Do They Eat?
Like all praying mantises, Archimantis species are carnivores, which means they eat other animals. They are skilled predators, using their excellent camouflage to blend into their surroundings. They wait patiently for an unsuspecting insect, like a fly or a grasshopper, to come close. Then, with a lightning-fast strike, they grab their meal with their spiky front legs.
Different Types of Archimantis Mantises
There are several different kinds of Archimantis mantises. Scientists have given each type a special name. Here are some of the known species:
- Archimantis armata Wood-Mason, 1877
- Archimantis brunneria Saussure, 1871
- Archimantis gracilis Milledge, 1997
- Archimantis latistyla (Serville, 1839)
- Archimantis monstrosa Wood-Mason, 1878
- Archimantis quinquelobata Tepper, 1905
- Archimantis sobrina Saussure, 1872 - also known as Archimantis minor Giglio-Tos, 1917
- Archimantis straminea Sjostedt, 1918
- Archimantis vittata Milledge, 1997
See Also
In Spanish: Archimantis para niños
