Orchid mantis' disguise lures prey

[emydura]

I have heard of orchids mimicking insects to attract pollinators, but not the reverse.

http://www.abc.net.au/science/articles/2013/10/10/3862684.htm

 

[Hera]

Cool story. I'd like to see that in action.

 

[biothanasis]

Interesting!!!
The individuals with better characteristics were helped in better success for hunting and/or reproduction, resulting in better mimicry pattern/design (all down to evolution?).

 

[gonewild]

These are really cool! I found this link to some great pictures,

http://37signals.com/svn/posts/1115-orchid-mantis

 

[goldenrose]

I saw this on a TV program, one of the nature channels no doubt.

 

[SlipperFan]

Interesting and amazing stuff!

 

[lepetitmartien]

I wonder if there's color variations, and if it's environment dependent (the mantis mimics the flowers of its living area) and is it changing over time or not.