Question about Molting

[Brazilian_Magewick]

This may seem like a stupid question, but I'm asking it anyway. Do nymphs molt after they get enough nutrients(ie eat enough flies or whatever)? Or do they Just constantly grow and molt every ~2 weeks?

 

[Crazy4mantis]

There are several factors that influence molting times. How warm the temps are and how many insects are fed affect the molting times, but there is still basic molting times. (different species have different molting times.)

 

[Rick]

Molting is actually hormonal. Some of the triggers to begin the process comes from the environment.

 

[agent A]

Molting is actually hormonal. Some of the triggers to begin the process comes from the environment.

same as my sister

anyways the species, sex, stage, food intake, temperature, and humidity all factor into the process

 

[Precarious]

There is no set time between molts. You will find there may be as much as a week difference even between nymphs from the same ooth. Timing is mainly influenced by how readily available food is. Increases in temperature also increase metabolism causing nymphs to eat more aggressively which can shorten the time between molts. So it's mainly about collecting the necessary nutrients and preparing the body for molt.

A wound will also increase the time between molts to heal but also to regenerate damages limbs.