Deroplatys truncata, commonly known as the Triangle Dead Leaf Mantis, is a species of praying mantis famed for its remarkable camouflage. Here's a quick overview of this fascinating insect:
🪲 Deroplatys truncata – Triangle Dead Leaf Mantis
Family: Mantidae
Native to: Southeast Asia (notably Malaysia and Indonesia)
Habitat: Tropical forests with abundant leaf litter and vegetation
🔍 Key Characteristics:
Camouflage: Mimics a dead leaf with incredible detail — from the brownish, veined wings to the serrated edges of its body.
"Triangle" Feature: Named for the triangular, flattened pronotum (part of the thorax) that enhances its leaflike appearance.
Size: Females can reach about 7–8 cm in length; males are generally smaller and more slender.
Coloration: Ranges from light brown to dark brown, sometimes with mottled patches to better resemble dried foliage.
🧠 Behavior & Adaptations:
Defense: When threatened, they can flare their forelegs and wings to startle predators, revealing darker underwings.
Hunting: Like other mantids, they are ambush predators, using patience and lightning-fast strikes to capture insects.
Molting: Goes through several molts before reaching adulthood; each stage refines its camouflage.
🐣 Care in Captivity (for hobbyists):
Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
Humidity: High, around 70–80%
Diet: Feeds on live insects like flies, crickets, and roaches
Temperament: Generally calm but predatory; males are more skittish and can fly