Spiny Flower Mantis
Spiny flower mantids get their Latin name from the resemblance to species in the genus Creobroter, but are much more ornate and bigger. The abdomen is covered with spines and the legs have lobed petal extensions. Older nymphs and adults are ornamented with green, pink, lavender pigments on a background of white. Tiny nymphs are blue-black with white spots and mimic ants. The giant eyespot on the abdomen is brightly colored and spiral shaped and often has the mantis species referred to as the #9 mantis. Adults can be around one to one and a half inches in length.