Brazilian dead leaf mantis (Acanthops falcata)
Invertebrates · Difficulty: Intermediate
Key facts and care guidance for Brazilian dead leaf mantis (Acanthops falcata) (origin: South America (Brazil, Peru, Bolivia)). Adult size around females ~4 cm, males ~3 cm. Life expectancy approx. 6–9 months. The values below are carefully researched guidance.
Short answers
Brazilian dead leaf mantis: How big does the enclosure need to be?
20×20×30 cm kept singly.
Brazilian dead leaf mantis: What temperature does it need?
Daytime 24–28 °C, basking spot no warm spot needed, at night 20–22 °C.
Brazilian dead leaf mantis: Does it need UVB lighting?
UVB: No UVB needed.
Brazilian dead leaf mantis: How long do they live?
Life expectancy: approx. 6–9 months.
Brazilian dead leaf mantis: Is it suitable for beginners?
Rather not – it is considered an intermediate species (difficulty: Intermediate).
Climate
- Daytime temperature
- 24–28 °C
- Night temperature
- 20–22 °C
- Basking spot
- no warm spot needed
- Humidity
- 70–80 %
- UVB
- No UVB needed
Enclosure
- Minimum size
- 20×20×30 cm kept singly
- Substrate
- Coco humus, damp; mist lightly every day
Feeding
- Food
- Flies, small crickets, wax moths
- Feeding interval
- every 1–2 days; a two-day break after shedding
Key facts
- Adult size
- females ~4 cm, males ~3 cm
- Life expectancy
- approx. 6–9 months
- Origin
- South America (Brazil, Peru, Bolivia)
- Protection status
- Not protected
- Brumation
- None
- Cohabitation
- Keep singly. Like most mantises the Brazilian dead-leaf mantis is cannibalistic towards conspecifics, with the larger animal attacking the smaller especially where sizes differ. During mating itself, however, sources indicate that this species rarely shows the feared sexual cannibalism of the male by the female.
Notes
The female looks like a dried leaf and cannot fly; the male is slender and a good flier. Crepuscular.
Do you keep this species?
Add your animal to Reptoria – Reptoria reminds you about feeding and shedding. Add your animal for free →
Look for Brazilian dead leaf mantis (Acanthops falcata) in the marketplace →
Related species
- Spiny flower mantis (Pseudocreobotra wahlbergii) – Beginner to intermediate
- African giant mantis (Sphodromantis lineola) – Beginner
- African giant mantis (Sphodromantis viridis) – Beginner
- Egyptian dwarf mantis (Miomantis paykullii) – Beginner
- Asian ant mantis (Odontomantis planiceps) – Beginner
- Giant Asian mantis (Hierodula patellifera) – Beginner
- Banded flower mantis (Theopropus elegans) – Intermediate
- Boxer mantis (Ephestiasula pictipes) – Intermediate
What you need to start
To keep Brazilian dead leaf mantis (Acanthops falcata) you typically need: a suitable enclosure (20×20×30 cm kept singly), substrate (Coco humus, damp; mist lightly every day), a heat source with a thermostat, UVB lighting, thermometer and hygrometer, a water dish and hides. You will find equipment in the Reptoria marketplace.
The complete, interactive care database is in the Reptoria app.
Last updated: 9 October 2026 · Editor: Reptoria editorial team · Sources include: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blattmantis, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acanthops
All values are non-binding guidance and do not replace expert advice. Research thoroughly from several sources before acquiring and keeping an animal, and observe the applicable law (species and animal protection in particular).