Spiny Flower Mantis #9 Flower Mantid (Pseudocreobotra ocellata)

Pseudocreobotra ocellata and Pseudocreobotra wahlbergii are both known as the Spiny Flower Mantis. Pseudocreobotra ocellata is supposedly slightly smaller and more narrow than Pseudocreobotra wahlbergii. At one time a discussion of making the two species into one was taking place. I've not heard what came of that, but since it was years ago, apparently science still maintains them as distinct species.

Spiny flower mantises are one of the most popular praying mantis species in the pet bug hobby and have managed to really hang around for a long time. Both species of Spiny Flower Mantises are large compared to their Creobroter spp. flower mantis cousins. The flanges on the abdomen and legs of the Spiny Flower Mantis are also one factor that set these mantids apart from others. A mixture of white, green and yellow, with a hint of brown make up the color complex of these species.

As with most mantis species, males are noticeably smaller than females.

Nymphs of Pseudocreobotra mimic ants. They look slightly different after each shed, with periods of glossy black with a shimmery pearlescence. After the initial ant-like phases (through about the 3rd instar), they take on a more camouflaged appearance with shades of mat black and brown. This stage is followed very shortly by a lightening of the, now-larger, nymph. It becomes a light tan to off-white color with hints of green and/or yellow. At maturity, the mantis gains it adult colors and wings, including an interesting number nine pattern on its wings. For this reason, the species was once popularly known as the #9 Mantis. This common name has lost favor to the now popular common name- Spiny Flower Mantis. Personally, I like to distinguish between the two species as follows:

Pseudocreobotra ocellata - Ocellated Spiny Flower Mantis

Pseudocreobotra wahlbergii - Wahlbergi's Spiny Flower Mantis

Sorry for the unclear photos. The photos were taken in 2001 with my old camera. I'll post a new photo of each stage of the life cycle, someday!