Metallyticus splendidus
An iridescent praying mantis that can move with surprising speed over bark: Metallyticus splendidus is a distinctive Southeast Asian predator. KA’AETÉ retains it only for a possible second predator phase, never as an inhabitant of an already completed terrarium.
More than metallic colour
Museum specimens show the striking iridescence and unusual, broad raptorial forelegs of this mantis. Its appearance is not evidence of a particular camouflage strategy in KA’AETÉ: colour, structure and behaviour must be considered together.
What field observers actually saw
A field study in Sabah, Malaysia documented a small population on a dead dipterocarp tree. Observers saw the mantises move swiftly on the trunk and enter holes rather than simply remain motionless in an ambush posture. Their natural history is still incompletely understood.
Predator phase 2 is conditional
The current project sequence places jumping spiders first, with Metallyticus only if suitable prey populations, safe refuges, habitat structure, legal captive origin and stable microclimate can all be verified. The precise diet and long-term compatibility must be checked before any acquisition.
STATUS · Phase 2 selected as a conditional long-term direction, not introduced; may be postponed if ecological requirements cannot be met. Real construction began on 16 October 2026.
Field study: Lubbers et al. (2020) · Oxford University Museum of Natural History