Chinese mantis vs Mediterranean mantis
These two are easy to mix up. Here's how to tell a Chinese mantis from a Mediterranean mantis, and whether either one bites or stings.
Chinese mantis
Tenodera sinensis
Mediterranean mantis
Iris oratoria
≠The key differences
Tenodera sinensis is typically larger and more uniformly coloured without the prominent rounded hindwing eyespots; overall shape and size help distinguish it.
⚖︎Side by side
| Chinese mantis | Mediterranean mantis | |
|---|---|---|
| To humans | Non-toxic | Non-toxic |
| Size | 65-100 mm body length (females larger than males) | 4-6 cm body length |
| Colours | Green, Brown, Tan | Green, Brown, Beige, White |
| Family | Mantidae | Irisidae |
| Habitat | Weedy fields, gardens, hedgerows, shrubs and tall vegetation where they can ambush prey. | Open, sunny locations with vegetation: grasslands, scrub, gardens, field margins and Mediterranean shrub; tolerates dry conditions. |
| Range | Native to East Asia; introduced and established in much of eastern North America and parts of the western United States, and recorded in other regions via accidental or intentional release. | Native to the Mediterranean basin (southern Europe, North Africa, parts of the Middle East) and introduced populations in parts of North America (southern USA, California) and other warm regions. |
| Active | Active late spring through early autumn; peak adult activity in summer, largely diurnal but may be active at dusk. | Spring to early autumn; primarily diurnal but may be active at dusk. |
| Pest? | No | No |
🔍How to spot a Chinese mantis
- Large, elongated body with a distinct long 'neck' (prothorax) connecting head and body.
- Raptorial front legs held folded in a 'praying' posture with visible spines for grasping prey.
- Colour green, brown or tan, often matching surrounding vegetation; adults have visible wings covering the abdomen.
- Triangular, highly mobile head with large compound eyes that face forward.
🔍How to spot a Mediterranean mantis
- Look for medium size (4-6 cm) and elongated prothorax with folded raptorial forelegs.
- Flash of the hind wings reveals a pair of rounded eyespot markings — distinctive for Iris oratoria.
- Colour varies between green and brown with mottling; females are stouter, males more slender and better fliers.
- Oothecae are foamy, attached to twigs or stems and persist through winter.
?Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a Chinese mantis and a Mediterranean mantis?
Tenodera sinensis is typically larger and more uniformly coloured without the prominent rounded hindwing eyespots; overall shape and size help distinguish it.
Is a Chinese mantis or a Mediterranean mantis more dangerous?
Chinese mantis: Non-toxic. Mediterranean mantis: Non-toxic. Chinese mantis are not venomous and pose little risk. Not dangerous to people.
Identification from photos is never certain: don't handle insects you can't identify, and get medical advice for bites, stings or allergic reactions.