#deroplatys

“Photo”

A Dead Leaf Mantis, specifically a species from the genus Deroplatys.

Marcus Kam

Adult Female Deroplatys gorochovi

Asian dead leaf mantids in the genus Deroplatys

Found in Southeast Asia

Also known as Deroplatys desiccata, A species native to Southeast Asia...

These mantises get their namesake from their highly adapted camouflage, making them look similar to a dead leaf. They use this camouflage to ambush prey, and hide from predators in the tropical forests and shrublands of Southeastern Asia.

Their thorax is commonly seen flattened, copying the look of many leaves. Their bodies are brown in colour, with speckling and vein-like protrusions which also contribute to the fascinating camouflage they have evolved.

Their wings also have 'eyespots', which they display when they feel under threat. They also commonly 'sway' when threatened to replicate the movement of a leaf in the wind.

Oh he mad. He angy. He no want the ronch.