Two Asian praying mantis species have been officially designated as invasive alien species in Europe. A new study details their rapid spread and effects on native wildlife.
Researchers led by Roberto Battiston have formally classified Hierodula tenuidentata and Hierodula patellifera as invasive alien species. The designation appears in the Journal of Orthoptera Research following analysis of their impact on European ecosystems.
The mantises have lived in Europe for about a decade but have expanded sharply in Mediterranean and continental areas. They spread northward with climate change and urban heat, preying on pollinators, tree frogs, lizards and other native species.
Native mantis populations decline when males mate with the larger invasive females and are eaten. Each egg case produces around 200 young, nearly twice the output of the native Mantis religiosa.
Citizen science efforts collected more than 2,300 sightings. Experts advise removing egg cases only after specialist consultation to protect native species.
