La Mantide religiosa (Mantis religiosa LINNAEUS, 1758), denominata anche mantide europea è una delle specie più comuni dell'ordine Mantodea. The Praying Mantis (Mantis religious Linnaeus, 1758), also known as the European mantis is one of the most common species of the order Mantodea Description The female is about 7.5 cm long, 6 cm in the male. Its color ranges from bright green to light brown. Is easily distinguished by the presence of two black patches, one for each front leg, similar to an eye when displayed for defensive purposes. The larvae of the mantis in nature are born in May / June, to become mature in August. The eggs are laid in ooteche, produced by the female during the cold season. Ooteca Each contains an average of 60-70 eggs and can be up to 200. The pair of mantises is characterized by post-wedding cannibalism, the female, after being coupled, or even during the act, starting from the head devours the male genitalia while continuing in coupling. This behavior is due to the need for rapid protein in egg production proof is that the breeding female, being well fed, often "save" the maschio.Si eat flies and other small insects. Defense They know easily camouflaged among the leaves, where buildings await their prey. To guard against attacks by animals antagonists the mantis suddenly opens its wings seem to get bigger. Good day and good week Thanks for the comments and the favourites of previous image