Asian ant mantis (Odontomantis planiceps)

Odontomantis planiceps (Asian ant mantis) is a small praying mantis species found across South and Southeast Asia. It is best known for its remarkable ant mimicry, especially in its juvenile stages, where its slender body, dark coloration, and jerky movements closely resemble ants. This mimicry helps protect it from predators until it matures. Adults are typically green or brown and feed on small insects, using their raptorial forelegs to capture prey. Though tiny compared to larger mantises, it plays a useful role in controlling insect populations in gardens and natural habitats.