Rare White African Mantis Stuns Visitors at Primorsky Aquarium
A rare white African mantis has arrived at the Primorsky Aquarium. The insect, usually green or brown, now lives in the 'Tropical Forest' exhibit. Its unusual colour and aggressive nature have drawn attention from visitors and researchers alike.
The new mantis belongs to the species Sphodromantis viridis, native to North and Eastern Africa. Since the 1990s, these insects have spread across Southern Europe due to climate change and human activity. Regions like Southern France, Catalonia, Valencia, Sicily, and parts of Greece now report established populations, with sightings as far north as Liguria and Corsica by 2025.
This species is known for its ambush hunting style, growing up to 10 centimetres long. Females are particularly aggressive, often eating their mates after or even during copulation. After mating, they lay eggs in a protective case called an ootheca before dying—a process that triggers their bodies to self-destruct. Around a month and a half later, nymphs emerge, immediately active to avoid being eaten by their siblings.
The white colour of the aquarium's mantis is not genetic but develops from environmental factors during its growth. Most individuals display green or brown shades, making this specimen a striking exception.
The mantis will remain in the 'Tropical Forest' exhibit, offering visitors a close look at its behaviour and rare appearance. Its presence also highlights how species like Sphodromantis viridis continue to expand beyond their native habitats. Researchers will monitor its development, adding to ongoing studies on colour variation in mantises.
