Mantis religiosa, The Praying Mantis from Europe
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Mantis religiosa known as The Praying Mantis from Europe, is an insect grouped in order Mantodea. The name “praying mantis” comes from the way the insect holds its strong, grasping forelegs and the typical “prayer-like” stance. Greenish-brown coloration makes it almost invisible against twigs and leaves, from which it pounces on its prey. The European Mantis is usually 5–7.5 cm (2–3 inches) in length. Mantis religiosa is exclusively predatory. As in related insect groups, mantises go through three stages of metamorphosis: egg, nymph, and adult. The natural lifespan of a this mantis in the wild is about 10–12 months.