Clinia humeralis wide arm mantis care

Wide Arm Mantis (Cilnia humeralis) Complete Care Guide

Introduction

The Wide Arm Mantis, scientifically known as Cilnia humeralis, is a captivating mantis species recognized for its distinctive wide arms and fascinating behaviors. This care guide will provide you with all the essential information to ensure your Wide Arm Mantis thrives in captivity.

Natural Habitat

• Origin: Native to various parts of Africa.

• Environment: Found in diverse habitats ranging from grasslands to forests, where they can effectively camouflage themselves among foliage and branches.

Housing

• Enclosure:

  • Size: For a medium species, approximately 7 cm in length as an adult, the enclosure must have dimensions that are at least three times the mantis's length and twice its width.

  • Material: A glass or well-ventilated plastic terrarium is ideal.

  • Substrate: Use a mixture of coconut fiber, peat moss, or paper towels to help retain humidity and provide a naturalistic look.

• Decor:

  • Climbing Structures: Include plenty of twigs, branches, and live or artificial plants for climbing and hiding.

  • Hiding Spots: Ensure there are sufficient hiding places to mimic their natural habitat and provide a sense of security.

  • To facilitate an unobstructed moulting process, it is advisable to minimize decorations within the enclosure until adult.

Environmental Conditions

• Temperature:

  • Day: Maintain a daytime temperature of 75-85°F (24-29°C).

  • Night: A slight temperature drop at night is acceptable, but keep it above 65°F (18°C).

• Humidity:

  • Maintain humidity levels between 60-70%.

  • Regular misting is essential to maintain proper humidity levels, especially during moulting periods.

Feeding

• Diet:

  • Cilnia humeralis should be fed a diet of small live insects such as fruit flies, small locust, and other small arthropods.

  • The prey size should be appropriate for the mantis's size, typically around half the length of the mantis's body.

• Feeding Frequency:

  • Nymphs (juveniles) should be fed every other day.

  • Adults should be fed every 3-5 days.

  • Instar 1-3 Drosophila hydei.

  • Instar 4 green bottle flies.

  • Instar 5+ roaches, small locust and bluebottle flies.

Water

• Hydration: Regular misting will provide necessary water droplets that the mantis can drink from leaves and decorations.

• Misting: Mist the enclosure lightly once or twice a day to maintain humidity and provide water.

Handling

• Frequency: Minimal handling is recommended as mantises can be easily stressed.

• Technique: If handling is necessary, be gentle. Allow the mantis to climb onto your hand rather than picking it up directly.

Moulting

• Process:

  • Moulting is a critical process where the mantis sheds its exoskeleton to grow.

  • Ensure the enclosure has adequate vertical space for the mantis to hang during moulting.

  • The mantis may refuse food a day or two before moulting.

• Post-Moult Care:

  • Do not handle the mantis immediately after moulting as they are vulnerable until their exoskeleton hardens.

  • It can take up to 48 hours to fully harden after a moult.

Breeding

• Sexing:

  • Males are generally smaller and more slender, while females are larger and more robust. Males have 8 abdominal segments and females have 6.

  • Females are adult at instar 9 and males instar 8.

  • Females are sexually mature 4 weeks and the male 3 weeks after the final moult. Females of this species are extremely aggressive and it is best waiting until she is 6-8 weeks mature.

• Mating Process:

  • The only success i have had with these is by putting the male on the female while she has a large food item. If left to stalk the female the male usually gets eaten.

  • Monitor closely to prevent cannibalism and provide ample space and hiding spots.

  • Ootheca is normally laid 2-3 weeks after mating.

• Egg Care:

  • Females lay ootheca (egg cases) that should be kept in similar environmental conditions to the adults.

  • Ensure the humidity is slightly higher during this period to facilitate healthy egg development.

  • Ootheca will normally hatch within 6-8 weeks, approximately 100-200 nymphs.

Common Issues

• Dehydration:

  • Symptoms: Lethargy, shriveled appearance.

  • Solution: Increase humidity and ensure regular misting.

• Moulting Problems:

  • Ensure the enclosure has adequate humidity and vertical space for moulting.

• Cannibalism:

  • Provide ample food and space to reduce the risk of cannibalism, especially during mating.

Lifespan

• Typical Lifespan: Approximately 6-12 months, depending on care and environmental conditions.

Conclusion

Caring for a Wide Arm Mantis (Cilnia humeralis) is a rewarding experience that requires attention to their specific environmental and dietary needs. With the right care, these captivating insects can thrive and exhibit their fascinating natural behaviors. Follow this guide to ensure a healthy, vibrant life for your mantis.