any of approximately 2,000 species of large, slow-moving insects that are characterized by front legs with enlarged femurs (upper portion) that
have a groove lined with spines into which the tibia (lower portion) presses.
Using their spined front legs, mantids, which feed exclusively on living
insects, seize prey in a viselike grip. When alarmed the mantid assumes a
“threatening” attitude by raising and rustling its wings (if it is a winged
species) and often displays bright warning coloration. Usually found among
vegetation rather than on the ground, a mantid may be disguised to resemble
green or brown foliage, a dried leaf, a slender twig, a lichen, a brightly
coloured flower, or an ant.This camouflage hides it from predators and also makes it
inconspicuous as it stalks or awaits victims. The female, which often eats the
male during mating, lays about 200 eggs in a large cocoonlike capsule (ootheca),
which serves to protect the eggs from adverse weather conditions and enemies.
The nymphs, which lack wings but otherwise closely resemble adults, all emerge
at the same time. The nymphs are often cannibalistic
