Raining orchid mantis

[Rob Byatt]

That is the largest hatch I have ever seen from this species. You must have the humidity and vetilation spot on. Well done for keeping notes :wink:

I never hatch more than 60 per ootheca, though I know that my bug room is a little on the dry side.

I hope you will keep this as your 'signature' species.

Rob.

 

[Rick]

I am VERY glad to here this. I am also looking forward for my ooths from Yen to hatch. This is a beautiful species and in Europe not so common (I've seen an offer of 13$ for an L1 nymph!) But recently they are more available in Germany, so the prices went down to a sensible level Anyway, I've read some strange opinions about keeping orchids like "the best way to keep them alive is to install a computer fan in their container because they are so prone to poor ventilation". This is an exeggeration, isn't it?

Yes. I have done nothing to provide extra ventilation. They live just fine in deli cups.

 

[Insect Guy]

Hey Yen,

I have been browsing the forums and I have heard many good things about you. You seem like you really know what you are doing. I just joined the forums tonight and am just starting in the hobby. I posted a topic in this part of the forums and an introduction in that part, if anyone wants more information on me.

I am interested in starting into the hobby in a few months. I wondered if you ever sold your orchid mantids or their egg cases because they seem like a fairly easy species to keep and I really like the look of them. Basically, I am just asking for any input you can provide to me and also if you could help me get started into the hobby and maybe I could buy an egg case or some nymphs from you.

By the way my name is Mike. Thanks.

 

[Rick]

Hey Yen,I have been browsing the forums and I have heard many good things about you. You seem like you really know what you are doing. I just joined the forums tonight and am just starting in the hobby. I posted a topic in this part of the forums and an introduction in that part, if anyone wants more information on me.

I am interested in starting into the hobby in a few months. I wondered if you ever sold your orchid mantids or their egg cases because they seem like a fairly easy species to keep and I really like the look of them. Basically, I am just asking for any input you can provide to me and also if you could help me get started into the hobby and maybe I could buy an egg case or some nymphs from you.

Not really a good choice for your first. They are not that hard but you don't want to mess up and end up with dead orchids. I would suggest the african mantis or giant asian mantis.

By the way my name is Mike. Thanks.

 

[yen_saw]

I've read some strange opinions about keeping orchids like "the best way to keep them alive is to install a computer fan in their container because they are so prone to poor ventilation

Isis, you are right about the ventilation issue. If you see water droplets remain inside the container for more than 1 hour, it means the air is stagnant and cage is too wet for orchid mantis. I use plastic container with opening on top and side (glued with net screen) to improve ventilation.

That is the largest hatch I have ever seen from this species. You must have the humidity and vetilation spot on

Believed this is one of the many important factors for a good hatching rate. Food, strong gene, and healthy breeding male (which is easily ignored) are equally crucial for producing good quality and fertile ootheca.

Mike, orchid mantis is easy to raise and is a beautiful species. HOwever, it is also sensitive species and need extra care. If you think you are up to the challenge then PM me.