Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Do any of you provide your mantids with UV light? If so, do you think it really makes a difference in terms of breeding?

I keep reptiles as well so I know the importance of UV lighting. But I have found no evidence that mantids NEED it. They do need some light but it does not seem to have to be UV or any special light. Mantids thrive in a well lighted environment. I have done experiments with mantids in a clear container with good light and mantids in other containers with not so good lighting. Both were from the same eggcase. The one mantis I had in good lighting grew much faster than the other ones. I keep my mantids under plain flourescent lighting and also next to a window for natural light. So I would say a common flourescent or incadescent light will benefit them but it does not have to be a special UV light. Of course a UV or UVB light will not hurt and will probably further benefit them.

hmm,
this is questionable as most species of mantids are disournal.
I do not believe it has ever been proven that mantids do indeed need UV rays but I would test it and see what happens, nothing bad can happen.
Craig Condon
Exotic herpetologies (not done)

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save a cow, eat a vegetarian

Well just like I said. I don't think UV or any special light is needed for them to survive but I have determined that living in a well lighted area makes the mantis thrive much more.