Scientists are warning that two Asian mantis species are becoming a growing threat to Europe’s native wildlife, according to ScienceDaily. A new study in the Journal of Orthoptera Research has officially classified Hierodula tenuidentata and Hierodula patellifera as invasive alien species.
Research led by Roberto Battiston of the Museum of Archaeology and Natural Sciences “G. Zannato” found that the insects have been in Europe for about a decade, but their numbers have risen sharply in recent years across Mediterranean and continental areas. Battiston said they are moving farther north as climate change changes where they can survive.
The mantises are large, adaptable predators that live in trees and shrubs and reproduce quickly. According to the study, each egg case can produce an average of about 200 young, nearly twice as many as the native European mantis.
Researchers say the insects are affecting native species by drawing in male mantises that are then eaten, and by feeding on a wide range of animals, including honeybees, tree frogs and lizards. They also noted that domestic cats are the most common vertebrate predator of the invasive mantises, but cats also kill native mantises.
To help monitor the spread, scientists have used citizen reports, with more than 2,300 sightings collected so far. Researchers say public awareness and targeted conservation efforts will be important as the insects continue expanding across Europe.
