EPOW - Ecology Picture of the Week

Explanation:    Found in a river floodplain in steppe country of eastern Oregon, USA, this is a Chinese mantid.  The species is very common and sold throughout the United States as "alternative pets" ... although it is not native to this country.

Originally imported from China in 1896, Chinese "praying" mantids are capable of successful reproduction in many parts of North America.  Their limiting factors -- temperature, rainfall, prey, etc. -- are not specifically studied, although winter low temperature may be one critical factor curtailing their distribution.  Hatching occurs in an optimal range of 40-90% humidity and 70-90F (approx. 20-30C) temperature.  Their egg cases contain 200 young.  

Chinese mantids have been sold and released as a biocontrol agent.  Although they prey on many other insects including mites and eggs, they apparently will not consume ladybugs (also a beneficial biocontrol agent in gardens and agricultural environments) because of the bitter taste.  However, as with any introduced and "exotic" (nonnative) species, their secondary effects on native species, including native mantids and other insect predators, should be determined and considered before they are released.

These are superbly adapted predators ... with their large eyes, quick reflexes, and camouflage coloration to facilitate ambush strikes.  They are, indeed effective "preying" mantids as well as "praying" mantids named for their prayer-like posture.  They have been honored on a $3 postage stamp from the Commonwealth of Dominica.  

Acknowledgment:  Thanks to Dr. Andy Moldenke, Oregon State University, for confirming the identification, and to Rick Brown for spotting and catching this specimen during our field outing.

Information:  Many articles on biology and ecology of this species are available here.