| Hierodula | |
|---|---|
 | |
| unidentified Hierodula species | |
Scientific classification  | |
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Arthropoda |
| Class: | Insecta |
| Order: | Mantodea |
| Family: | Mantidae |
| Tribe: | Hierodulini |
| Genus: | Hierodula Burmeister, 1838 |
| Species | |
| Synonyms | |
| |
Hierodula [1] is a genus of praying mantids in the tribe Hierodulini, found throughout Asia. Many species are referred to by the common name giant Asian mantis because of their large size compared to other mantids. Their large size and vibrant coloration make Hierodula mantids popular in the pet trade. Some widespread species include H. membranacea and H. patellifera ; [2] however this has been considered a 'catch all' genus and is currently subject to review. In 2020, three species were moved to a new genus, Titanodula . [3] Recent genetic and morphological studies suggest that most of the species in Hierodula should be moved to other genera in the tribe Hierodulini, such as: Rhombodera (for the Hierodula chinensis clade), Tamolanica (for the Hierodula majuscula clade) and Rhombomantis (for the Hierodula patellifera clade); as well as potentially new genera. This is because the type species of Hierodula is Hierodula membranacea . This means only the species closest to H. membranacea should be considered “true” Hierodula. Most species in Hierodula should actually be more closely related to other genera. [4]
