Hierodula

Hierodula is a genus of praying mantises 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 mantises. Their large size and vibrant coloration make Hierodula mantises popular in the pet trade. Some widespread species include H. membranacea and H. patellifera.

The traditional conception of the genus is now considered a 'catch all' and is currently subject to review and taxonomic revision; three species were moved to the new genus Titanodula in 2020, and a 2022 genetic and morphological study suggested 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, so only the species closest to it should be considered “true” Hierodula.