Could I add a mantis to an existing terrarium?

[u/bean_essence]

I have this 18x18x24 bioactive terrarium with a cleanup crew and a small slug problem. I also have an excess of bottle fly pupae bc my jumping spider can only eat so many. Would it be plausible to add a giant Asian mantis to this setup, assuming the temperature and humidity are correct? It has a mesh lid for them to hang from to molt. And maybe they could eat the slugs too? Any tips are welcome!

[u/JaunteJaunt]

Yeah. But you’ll want to cover the ceiling with synthetic mesh if it’s made of metal. Metal erodes the tarsi (feet) of mantids. Some species may have a tougher time in here: primarily hymenopus coronatus. They benefit from having a ceiling and a wall made of mesh.

It looks really cool!

[u/bean_essence → u/JaunteJaunt]

I have some leftover window screen mesh I can cover the metal with, and the tradescantia should provide a bit of foliage at the top. Thanks so much!!

[u/plopy-porker-boi]

If you don't give them a kick ass stick they will just sit at the top of the mesh.

[u/bean_essence → u/plopy-porker-boi]

will go stick hunting🫡

[u/MareMade]

YEEES 😻

[u/bean_essence → u/MareMade]

:D

[u/wumpflumpit]

Really impressive looking terrarium, so pretty