Malaysian Shield Mantis (Rhombodera basalis)
This species is native to Southeast Asia, particularly in countries like Thailand and Malaysia. This mantis is recognized for its distinctive, broad, leaf-like thorax, which gives it a "shielded" appearance. The flattened pronotum, resembling a leaf, serves as both camouflage and a defensive structure, helping it blend into its natural environment, such as foliage and trees. Rhombodera basalis is generally green, although some may exhibit shades of brown, further aiding in its camouflage. They are relatively large, with adult females reaching around 8–10 cm in length, making them slightly larger than males.
This species is native to Southeast Asia, particularly in countries like Thailand and Malaysia. This mantis is recognized for its distinctive, broad, leaf-like thorax, which gives it a "shielded" appearance. The flattened pronotum, resembling a leaf, serves as both camouflage and a defensive structure, helping it blend into its natural environment, such as foliage and trees. Rhombodera basalis is generally green, although some may exhibit shades of brown, further aiding in its camouflage. They are relatively large, with adult females reaching around 8–10 cm in length, making them slightly larger than males.
This species is native to Southeast Asia, particularly in countries like Thailand and Malaysia. This mantis is recognized for its distinctive, broad, leaf-like thorax, which gives it a "shielded" appearance. The flattened pronotum, resembling a leaf, serves as both camouflage and a defensive structure, helping it blend into its natural environment, such as foliage and trees. Rhombodera basalis is generally green, although some may exhibit shades of brown, further aiding in its camouflage. They are relatively large, with adult females reaching around 8–10 cm in length, making them slightly larger than males.