Hierodula Membracea (Giant Asian Mantis) L3+

Hierodula Membracea (Giant Asian Mantis) L3+ -Image is for illustration purposes only!

Housing
- Enclosure: A tall enclosure is necessary to accommodate the mantis's need for vertical space, especially for molting. For an L3 instar, a container about 20cm (8 inches) tall or larger is ideal. The enclosure should have adequate ventilation while maintaining necessary humidity levels.
- Substrate: You can use paper towels for easy cleaning or a natural substrate like coconut fiber to help maintain humidity. Keep the substrate clean and change it regularly.
- Humidity: Maintain a humidity level of 60-70% by misting the enclosure daily. Allow the enclosure to dry slightly between mistings to prevent mold growth.
- Temperature: A temperature range of 24-30°C (75-86°F) during the day, with a slight drop at night, is suitable. Room temperature can suffice, but you may need to use a heat mat or lamp in cooler conditions, ensuring not to overheat the enclosure.

Feeding
- Diet: Offer appropriately sized live prey such as fruit flies (Drosophila spp.) for smaller instars, moving to larger insects like crickets, roaches, or moths as they grow. Feed every 2-3 days, adjusting based on your mantis’s appetite and condition.
- Feeding Tips: Ensure the prey is not too large for the mantis to handle. Observe feedings to ensure successful hunting and consumption.

General Care
- Molting: Provide plenty of vertical space and structures for the mantis to hang from during molting. Avoid handling the mantis during this vulnerable time.
- Handling: While Hierodula membranacea can be handled, it's advisable to do so minimally to reduce stress. When handling, be gentle and allow the mantis to climb onto your hand of its own accord.

Social Needs
- Hierodula membranacea is a solitary species and must be housed individually to prevent cannibalism, which is common among mantises. They do not require or benefit from social interaction with other mantises.

Observation and Adjustment
- Regularly observe your mantis for signs of activity, successful feeding, and any potential health issues. Adjust care as necessary based on behavior, growth, and environmental conditions.