The Lifespan of a Male Orchid Mantis: Approximately 5 to 8 months, notably shorter than the female's.

 Orchid Mantis (Hymenopus coronatus) - Male Lifespan & Characteristics

Male Lifespan Overview
Male orchid mantises have a relatively short lifespan of approximately 5 to 6 months. This is significantly shorter than females, which typically live for 8 to 9 months.

Key Biological Characteristics

• Growth Cycle: Males undergo only 5 molts throughout their development

• Sexual Dimorphism: Males are typically less than half the size of females, measuring up to 3 cm compared to females' 6-7 cm

• Abdominal Segments: Males possess 8 abdominal segments, while females have only 6

Behavioral Notes

• Males face significant predation risk during mating due to sexual cannibalism by larger females

• Their smaller size and different coloration provide camouflage advantages in their natural habitat

• The pronounced size difference represents one of the most extreme examples of sexual dimorphism among mantis species

Developmental Stages
The orchid mantis molts by clinging upside down, with males completing their final molt after the fifth instar stage. Their shorter lifespan reflects their primary biological purpose: to tilerummy locate and mate with females during their brief adult stage.

This combination of physical characteristics and life history strategies makes the male orchid mantis a fascinating example of evolutionary adaptation in the insect world.