Stenophylla lobivertex

Meet the Dragon Mantis (Stenophylla lobivertex) — a truly extraordinary mantis from the Neotropics, known for its elongated body and the female’s unique retractable Y-shaped pheromone gland, one of the most unusual traits in the entire mantid world.

Our Dragon Mantises are bred by experienced keepers and offered only in limited numbers. They thrive on a diet of soft-bodied flying insects and do best in a warm, humid, and well-ventilated enclosure with plenty of vertical space. Their calm nature and rare appearance make them one of the most intriguing species available to advanced collectors.

Key Features:

• Stenophylla lobivertex – the rare “Dragon Mantis” from the Neotropics

• Females possess a retractable bifurcated pheromone gland (unique feature)

• Naturally slender and leaf-twig mimicking body structure

• Fed on moths, flies, and other flying prey

• Best kept by advanced mantis keepers and breeders

Care Snapshot:

• Temperature: 24–30 °C

• Humidity: 60–80 % with strong airflow

• Enclosure: Minimum 20 × 20 × 30 cm; vertical branches or mesh sides recommended

• Diet: Moths, houseflies, fruit flies (for nymphs)

• Behavior: Gentle, slow-moving species; ideal display mantis