Funny Nature & Travel Art & Stage Going Viral Science Greetings Inspirational

Edit Profile Recently Viewed Favorites

Main > Nature & Travel > Nature

The Mantis That Disguises Itself as an Orchid

Edited By: Shai K.

Add to Favorites In Favorites

Español

Font Size:

A+ A-

Many of us are not fans of insects, but you have to admit that the orchid mantis is truly breathtaking!

One of nature's most spectacular beings is also one of the most vicious. The orchid mantis (Hymenopus coronatus) is a mantis species in the rain forests of Southeast Asia that is characterized by brilliant coloring and a structure uniquely mirroring the shape of the orchid plant. The mantis, however, does not always look this beautiful and regal, but rather camouflages into its stunning shape when it wants to catch its prey.

When the orchid mantis is not blending into a nearby flower to catch its prey, the mantis has a yellow and black colors, making it look like a number of other insects in the jungle. However, once the mantis spots an insect that it would like to make its prey, it immediately begins to blend into the pink flower, spanning petal-shaped legs and rich pink, white and purple bodies.

orchind mantis 2

The orchid mantis is a newly discovered species. In the 1800s, scientists believed that the mantis had the ability to camouflage itself, but it was never proven. Now, over a century later, there is definitive proof that the mantis mimics flowers in order to catch its prey.

orchind mantis 3

Recently, a team of Australian researchers from the University of Sydney traveled to Malaysia and Indonesia to observe the orchid mantis in action. The found that conducting the study would not be easy because there was no scientific information regarding the insects. The researchers identified the mantises under wavelengths of visible light and confirmed that their colors were indistinguishable from the 13 species of wild flowers they camouflaged into.

orchind mantis 4

orchid mantis 5

Then the researchers began to observe how the mantis hunts. They watched as over a dozen pollinators approach what they thought was an innocent plant, only to suddenly be snatched and quickly gobbled up.

orchid mantis 6

"We now know that not only is it possible for mantises to lure pollinators, but we know that they are amazingly good at it," said James O'Hanlon. He believes that the mantises may be even better at attracting the pollinators than most flowers. There are many insects and animals that disguise themselves to ambush their prey, but rarely do any of them attract the prey itself; it's usually subject to chance.

orchid mantis 7

Get to know the beauty and terror of this mystical creature a little better - a true reminder that nature has infinite things in store!

having trouble playing this movie? click here

Like Next Post Send Share WhatsApp

Copy Link

Did you mean:

Continue With: Facebook Google

By continuing, you agree to our T&C and Privacy Policy

Report copyright infringement

Print this content

You may also like:

Nature

INTERACTIVE: Click on the Flower to See Its Full Beauty

These interactive photos of flowers will allow you to see them in video with a click.

Nature

8 Dangerous Invasive Insects in the United States

Here’s a list of the worst invasive bugs in the United States, pictures included.

Cute overload

Believe It or Not, Bees Like to Play Ball. Here's What it Looks Like

6:37

Bumblebees Are Even Cuter Than We Imagined!

Believe it or not, bumblebees like to play ball. Here's what it looks like.

Nature

These Rare Mushrooms Can Glow In the Dark

Only about 70 mushroom species out of 14,000 have this beautiful and rare ability.

Nature

WATCH: This Bee Builds a Nest with Dazzling Flair

5:02

Bee-autiful Builder: Watch a Bee Build Her Home!

Ever wondered how bees build their nests? Time to find out.

Nature

15:39

9 Myths About Mushrooms BUSTED For Good

Can we eat mushrooms raw or must we cook them first? Do they all have medicinal properties? And how can they help with cancer?

Computers & Internet

How to Set Up Your Phone to Call for Help If You Fall

This article teaches you to set up your iPhone or Android phone to be ready to summon help and speak for you when you need it most.

Tips, Life Hacks and DIY

Phone Scams That Use AI to Cheat People Out of Money

The New Phone Scams That Use AI to Sound Just Like Family

Let us walk through exactly how these schemes work and how to keep yourself and your savings safe.

Send Comment

Related Topics: nature, plants, insects, orchid, amazing photos

Quizzes

Can You See in Blues and Oranges?

Some people will see it instantly, while others will need to look twice. Whether you have eagle eyes or a color blind spot, there's only one way to find out. Ready to see what your eyes are made of?

What Do You Know of the Ottoman Empire?

This quiz explores the empire’s beginnings, territorial reach, defining battles, religious identity, cultural achievements, and eventual dissolution. Expect more than dates - this is a journey into imperial structure, ambition, and legacy.

Nutrition After Age 45

Let’s see how nutritionally strategic you really are.