Climate change creates another major threat. Seasons that were once predictable now bring strange rainfall patterns, long droughts, and extreme heat. These changes affect humidity, which is important for molting, and they reduce the insects that mantises eat.
When plants dry out too early or fail to grow back after drought, the microhabitats that mantises depend on start to collapse. Species that live in dry climates, like the ghost mantis, are especially at risk. Sudden shifts in heat and moisture can harm their camouflage and make molting difficult.
Overcollection for the Pet Trade
Most of the pet trade now focuses on captive-bred ghost mantises, but some wild collection still happens. Taking insects from small or stressed populations can cause long-term harm. While this may not be as serious as habitat loss, it adds pressure when combined with other threats.
