Species composition of mantis fauna in different habitats of Jabugam in Gujarat, India

Abstract

Praying mantids are ecologically significant predatory insects that play an important role in natural pest regulation, yet their diversity remains poorly documented in many regions of India. The present study aimed to assess the diversity and habitat association of mantids in Jabugam, Bodeli taluka of Chhotaudepur district, Gujarat. Surveys were conducted across different habitats, including paddy fields, grasslands, mango orchards and banana plantations. Specimens were preserved and identified using standard taxonomic keys. A total of seven mantid species belonging to four families Mantidae, Hymenopodidae, Empusidae and Toxoderidae were recorded, namely Mantis religiosa religiosa, Creobroter apicalis, Gongylus gongylodes, Hierodula coarctata, Hierodula membranacea, Aethalochroa ashmoliana and Statilia maculata continentalis.