Notes on the lifecycle and distribution of Sphodromantis gastrica (Stal, 1858) (Mantodea: Mantidae) in South Africa

Limited information is available regarding the distribution of the African mantis, Sphodromantis gastrica (Stal) (Mantodea: Mantidae) and no information is available on its biology. The aim of this study was to determine the distribution of S. gastrica in South Africa based on historic insect collection records and citizen science platforms occurrence data, and to study its basic biology and developmental parameters under captive breeding conditions. A total of 153 South African museum records of Sphodromantis spp. were recorded during this study, while 39 Research Grade observations from iNaturalist were also included. These records indicated that S. gastrica occurred in all provinces of South Africa. The incubation time of the S. gastrica oothecae were approximately 10 weeks and each ootheca contained an average of 84 egg chambers. The mean fertility rate was 54.6% while the survival rate until adulthood was 41.8%. The mean lifespan of S. gastrica individuals were approximately 332 days and females lived longer than males. This study will provide a baseline as it is the first published data on the distribution and biology of this common and charismatic insect in South Africa.

Automated summary

Limited information on the distribution and biology of the African mantis, Sphodromantis gastrica, is available. This study determined the distribution of S. gastrica in South Africa and studied its basic biology under captive breeding conditions. The study found that S. gastrica occurs in all provinces of South Africa. Important biological parameters such as incubation time, fertility rate, survival rate, and lifespan were also determined.