Synonyms and other taxonomic changes
Bistanta mexicana (
Saussure &
Zehntner, 1894); synonyms and taxonomic notes:
Bactromantis mexicana (Saussure & Zehntner, 1894)
Oligonyx mexicana Saussure & Zehntner, 1894. described from Mexico
Oligonyx toltecus Saussure & Zehntner, 1894. described from Chilpancingo 1500m, Guerrero, Mexico
Oligonicella mexicana (S. & Z.) Hebard, 1922
Bactromantis mexicana (S. & Z.) Giglio-Tos, 1927
Identification
Slender; small conical projections or "bumps" above each eye (not always easily seen, depending on perspective); front tibiae very short; pronotum with portion behind attachment of front legs about twice the length of portion in front (proportions may be distorted in photos, also due to perspective).
Thesprotia & Oligonicella are most similar, differing in proportions of pronotum. Oligonicella is stockier with front and back of pronotum about equal. Thesprotia is very slender and has the rear portion of the pronotum about three to four times longer than the front portion.
Helfer
(1) notes that front femur is very slender and that the female is wingless.
Habitat
Found on flowers; comes to lights
(1).
Print References
Anderson, K. (2018) Praying Mantises of the United States and Canada. Independently published. 291 pages
(3)
Helfer, J.R. (1962) How to Know the Grasshoppers, Cockroaches, and Their Allies. Wm. C. Brown Company, p. 30, fig. 44
(1)
