Congo Green Mantis (S. aurea)

Sphodromantis is a genus of mantis which contains many different species below it. Each species varies a bit in color and appearance, but for the most part all specimens in this genus are large, native throughout Africa, and have near identical care requirements. Due to the size and classic shape of this genus of mantis, mantises under the Sphodromantis umbrella are some of the most popular and commonly kept pet mantises in the hobby. Not to mention they are great for beginners, and are known to be hardy and easy to keep and breed! As a nymph, the Congo Green mantis (Sphodromantis aurea) is most often green with red accents on their backs, heads and legs. Adults can come in a range of different colors, such as green, yellow, beige and brown. They have fierce appetites, and it is fascinating to watch them aggressively hunt down fairly large prey!  They are not your sit and wait kind of predators, like so many other mantises. These mantises can be kept successfully in a living vivarium