Using Sticks from outside?

[danswan]

Conventional wisdom says not to contaminate your mantis enclosure with sticks from outside.

What if they are microwaved for 30 seconds first? Would that not kill any potention parasites/mites/critters, and their eggs thus making it safe to put the stick in with your bug?

I'd like to hear everyone's thoughts on this.

 

[Ian]

I would never hesitate in using twigs from outside. I always use fruit trees...but what infection could be fatal to your mantids? Mantids in the wild roam the countryside, I expect they pick up some horrendous parasties and infections, etc.

But no I have to say, I see no problem in introducing foliage from outside into the enclosure, without steralising it.

 

[Rick]

I've used stuff from outside.

 

[yen_saw]

As long as you know the twigs/sticks/leaves are free from pesticide, it is safe to use. Microwave a stick will kill parasites but not neutralize the pesticide containmination, and may have ill effect when a mantis is taking the water droplets from the stick.