How do mantises differentiate between male and female?

The praying mantis is an insect. There are some subtle differences in the appearance of male and female praying mantises. Let us introduce in detail how to distinguish male and female praying mantises:

1. Structure of the end of the abdomen

Male praying mantis: The end of the abdomen of a male praying mantis will have more rounded segments, which are usually more protruding and dense.

Female praying mantis: The female praying mantis' abdomen is relatively long at the end, usually showing a thinner abdomen, and the terminal segments are fewer and less prominent.

2. Wing length

Male praying mantis: The forewings of male praying mantises are slightly longer and extend beyond the end of the abdomen.

Female praying mantis: The length of the forewings of the female praying mantis is equal to or slightly shorter than the body length, and the wing length usually does not exceed the end of the abdomen.

3. Body size

Male praying mantis: Within the same species, male praying mantises may be slightly smaller than females.

Female praying mantis: Female praying mantises are usually slightly larger than males, especially in the adult stage, and the size difference may be more obvious.

4. The shape of the abdomen

Male praying mantis: The abdomen of a male praying mantis is usually thicker and the overall shape may be relatively rounded.

Female praying mantis: The abdomen of a female praying mantis may appear more elongated and, especially during egg laying, may appear fuller.

The above are some general methods to distinguish male and female praying mantises. However, to accurately distinguish male and female praying mantises, the best way is to use the above indicators comprehensively and observe multiple praying mantises at the same time to obtain a more accurate judgment. In fact, for non-professionals, it is sometimes difficult to distinguish based on appearance alone.

animal tags： mantis