Softening mismolted exoskeletal joints, tarsi...

[hysteresis]

Hey all.

This may sound bonkers. If so, please tell me.

In the case of my mismolted golden, her joints are very stiff. 

Has anyone ever used a pure natural oil to try to soften the chitin of a mantis' joints to improve flexibility? 

I understand I cant get it anywhere other than targeted joints or it would affect her respiration.

Thoughts?

 

[hysteresis]

And no, this is just a thought. But I wonder if anyone has tried something like this before?

 

[Mantis Lady]

No, I never did. I don't know if it will be working after the exo skeleton is hardend.

 

[Graceface]

I haven't tried this, but based on my understanding once the exoskeleton is hardened there is no going back

 

[hysteresis]

There are chemical techniques applied for histology that soften chitin,  but that's not where im going. 

Thanks for piping in. 

 

[Synapze]

As long as the oil is safe for mantids, I don't see why it would hurt to try. Personally, I'd give it a shot... as long as the oil is safe there's nothing to lose. As far as the tarsi go, I'd suggest leaving them alone. 

It might be a great learning experience for us all. 

 

[hysteresis]

@Synapze ill do a bit of research and see. 

 

[Synapze]

@hysteresis I don't recommend WD-40.

Good luck! 

 

[MantisGirl13]

Interesting idea! I don't think it will work, but go ahead and let us know how it goes!

- MantisGirl13

 

[hysteresis]

@Synapze i'll resist the temptation. LMAO.

@MantisGirl13 ... I dont know. Problem is I dont think she can hook well. Her tarsi (all) arent working right in addition to the stiff joints above her raptorial tibias.