Identifying Domestic species

In Indiana, there are primarily* two mantis species: the native Carolina mantis (Stagmomantis carolina) and the exotic Chinese mantis (Tenodera sinensis). Chinese mantises were accidentally introduced to America in 1896 through the nursery trade in Philadelphia and have subsequently been purposely released for pest control and purchased for education and even as pets.

Both species of mantis are predatory and opportunistic hunters, lying in wait for their prey. Both typically eat insects, spiders, isopods, and other terrestrial Arthropoda creatures, but the larger, more powerful Chinese mantises have been documented killing frogs, lizards, salamanders, shrews, mice, small turtles, bats, and even hummingbirds by stalking flowers and nectar feeders.

Chinese mantises are now naturalized in Indiana. Although not officially classified as invasive, their presence in our ecosystem is impacting native insects, many of whom are in decline, including native bees, butterflies (including monarchs), and moths.

For those attempting to control exotic Chinese mantises on your property, proper identification is the first step. Our native Carolina mantises have evolved here along with the animals that they prey upon, and therefore, this species should be encouraged. For those willing, adult** Chinese mantises can be killed or frozen and fed to native birds in the winter. Another method of control is to correctly identify, locate, and then destroy the oothecae (egg cases) of the Chinese mantises between the late fall and early spring. Most oothecae hold approximately 200 young, making egg case removal and destruction a productive, though pinpointed method of management within a given area.

The goal of exotic species management is to increase native diversity and is a personal decision that must include research and education. We at Indiana Nature LLC understand that not everyone will subscribe to the reduction methods identified for Chinese mantises. However, we believe in the importance of education regarding their origin and impact on our ecosystem.

*The European mantis (Mantis religiosa) can be found in the Midwest, but far less commonly. It is not featured in this infographic.

**During the nymph stage of mantis development, it is more difficult to differentiate the Carolina from the Chinese mantis.

Website: www.indiananature.net