The world is full of fascinating creatures that we have never even explored. This remarkable error is something you may have never encountered in your life.
The mantis orchid is like a very beautiful pink orchid flower. It is a very rare insect. This unique insect is only native to Malaysia and can be seen on a variety of trees in tropical and humid forests.
Now, aren’t you fooled by their looks? Although they look beautiful and gentle, they are also quite dangerous. These bugs use a hunting tactic known as aggressive mimicry.
They climb to the tops of flowering trees for camouflage and wait patiently for their prey to approach them. The prey is tricked into believing that the mantis orchid is a harmless flower. At that moment, suddenly, the orchid mantis attacked as soon as the prey approached and caught off guard.
Their flower-like appearance is useful in hunting and even when hiding from the eyes of predators. Bees and butterflies approach mantis orchids for pollination. They do not know that they are not sitting on a flower. This is why the mantis orchid is a master of camouflage. They feed on small insects that are relatively easy to hunt using their aggressive mimicry techniques.
What is quite interesting is that these deadly bugs even hunt larger prey like frogs, mice and lizards. Despite their small size, their effective hunting tactics act as a secret weapon that allows them to deceive their prey.
An adult female mantis orchid extends to about 6 cm, and only males grow to half that length. Although dangerous, these creatures are very short-lived. Their average lifespan is less than 8 months. They have become very popular pets because of their charming appearance.
Is that an orchid? Or was that a mistake?
Camouflage at its best.
The beauty of nature is here in a picture.
This Orchid Mantis video will leave you in awe!
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Categories: Trends
Source: HIS Education