PNG Shield Mantis (Rhombodera kirbyi)

Updated: September 22, 2025

Size

7–9 cm (2.8–3.5 in); females bulkier with broader “shield.”

Mist lightly 4–5× per week; ensure good airflow so surfaces dry within a few hours.

Aim for 60–70% RH with steady cross-ventilation. Avoid constantly wet substrate.

Warm, tropical. Heat the room or one enclosure side; never the mantis directly.

Night drop of ~2–4 °C (3–7 °F) is fine.

From ~i4 by sternites: females show 6 visible segments; males 8. Adults: males slimmer with longer wings; females broader and heavier.

10–14 months total. Adult females ~6–8 months; adult males ~3–5 months.

Males often mature one instar sooner than females.

i1–i3: D. melanogaster/D. hydei, tiny roaches or crickets.

i4–i6: House/green/blue bottle flies, small roaches, small hoppers.

i7–adult: Blue/green bottle flies, large flies, small–medium roaches, small locusts/crickets. Feed every 2–3 days.

Tip: Prey length ≲ head-to-pronotum; remove uneaten prey within 24 h.

i1–i3: 5.5 oz deli with fine mesh lid/side vents.

i4–i5: 16 oz deli or small terrarium with cross-ventilation.

i6–i8: 32 oz deli / medium terrarium (≥12″ tall).

Subadult–Adult: 12–16″ tall minimum; sturdy vertical and angled perches; substrate: paper towel, coco fiber, or moss (spot clean).

Confident, active ambush predator; appreciates dense foliage or broad leaves to rest under.