November the 12th, 2026 – An invasive Asian giant mantis has been seen within Mljet National Park, with more favourable weather conditions for this particular species causing them to spread.
This insect is a species of praying mantis belonging to the family Mantidae, one of the largest families within the order of praying mantises. As we all know, the weird and wonderful family of praying mantises earned their name from the characteristic position of their front legs, which they hold raised and folded, resembling hands clasped in prayer.
Index reports that the authorities at Mljet National Park have noted that changes in weather conditions are creating increasingly favourable conditions for the survival of this species across Europe. They add that, as a result, the Asian giant mantis has spread across the eastern Mediterranean in recent years, including Croatia.
we’re unsure what the consequences of their arrival will be yet
They also explained how this invasive species can be distinguished from the native common praying mantis (Mantis religiosa). The Asian giant mantis has a significantly larger body and is recognisable by a white or yellowish spot on its front wings. Unlike the native species, it tends to stay high up in the tree canopies. Its body is mostly green, but it can also have brown or yellow shades, according to the park. They emphasise that this species feeds on other insects, but warn that its long-term impact on local populations of other species is not yet known.
As they point out, only in the coming period will it be possible to determine what consequences the presence of the Asian giant mantis may have on the local ecosystem, if any.
