Mantis

Abstract: 1. A number of writers have reported the capture and eating of the male mantis by the female, both before and during copulation. This sexual cannibalism is promoted by captivity or disturbance of the couple before copulation, and is counteracted by the preliminary courtship of the male.2. The male has better vision than the female, and detects and approaches her only when she is in sight. His approach is very slow and hesitant, and there is complete absence of any display. If he is able to reach the back of the female undetected by her, he is not attacked.3. If his movements during the approach attract the attention of the female, or she is clasped in an abnormal position, he is attacked and eaten. Since his head is attacked first, an inhibitory center in the subesophageal ganglion is soon destroyed. This center normally inhibits (1) lateral locomotor movements, (2) copulatory movements of the abdomen, which originate in the last abdominal ganglion.4. These movements consequently commence after destructio...

Abstract: This study provides a comprehensive review of historical morphological nomenclature used for praying mantis (Mantodea) morphology, which includes citations, original use, and assignment of homology. All referenced structures across historical works correspond to a proposed standard term for use in all subsequent works pertaining to praying mantis morphology and systematics. The new standards are presented with a verbal description in a glossary as well as indicated on illustrations and images. In the vast majority of cases, originally used terms were adopted as the new standard. In addition, historical morphological topographical homology conjectures are considered with discussion on modern interpretations. A new standardized formulation to present foreleg femoral and tibial spines is proposed for clarity based on previous works. In addition, descriptions for methods of collection, curation, genital complex dissection, and labeling are provided to aid in the proper preservation and storage of specimens for longevity and ease of study. Due to the lack of consistent linear morphometric measurement practices in the literature, we have proposed a series of measurements for taxonomic and morphological research. These measurements are presented with figures to provide visual aids with homologous landmarks to ensure compatibility and comparability across the Order. Finally, our proposed method of pinning mantises is presented with a photographical example as well as a video tutorial available at http://mantodearesearch.com.

Abstract: A new species of praying mantis, Vates phoenix sp. nov. (Mantidae, Vatinae), is described from localities within Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo states, Brazil. This is the first record of Vates from the Atlantic Rainforest biome. The new species is unique among its congeners in having, among other features, strongly reduced cuticular projections above the lateral ocelli, structures otherwise well developed and produced in all other species of Vates . Remarks on the natural history and biogeography of Vates , in relation to this new finding, are further discussed.