Two alien praying mantis species, Hierodula patellifera and Hierodula tenuidentata, are showing early signs of impacting biodiversity in Europe, including preying on native species and interfering with the reproduction of local mantises, according to a study published in the Journal of Orthoptera Research, February 2026.
The research found that both Asian species have spread rapidly across several European regions and exhibit high reproductive rates and broad predation patterns. In a key finding, H. tenuidentata was reported to produce an average of about 209 nymphs per ootheca, significantly more than native species such as Mantis religiosa.
The study, led by Roberto Battiston, documented strong colonization abilities of both species over recent years. Observations indicate they thrive in various habitats, including city parks, gardens, and residential areas.
“We documented early evidence of impacts on native species, both through competition and direct predation,” Battiston said in the publication.
The research highlighted that adaptation to human-modified environments facilitates faster population expansion and increases the likelihood of dominance in new regions.
Impacts on Native Species and Reproduction
A major finding was reproductive interference with local species. Male Mantis religiosa were reported to be attracted to female Hierodula, but in some cases were consumed before mating could occur.
“This interaction may reduce reproductive success of native populations,” Battiston said. Such interference is considered an early indicator of biological invasion risk because it can alter population dynamics without immediate large-scale population declines.
Based on over 2,300 citizen science observations, the Hierodula species prey on a wide range of insects, including pollinators, and some small vertebrates protected under European Union regulations.
Their generalist predatory behavior allows them to exploit various food sources, increasing potential impacts on local food webs. Citizen-based observation approaches helped researchers rapidly map distribution and interactions, a method previously applied in environmental studies such as identifying which countries have the highest number of shark bite incidents. In this case, it expanded the data coverage without large-scale field surveys.
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Invasive Species Criteria and Ecological Risks
The researchers used field surveys, citizen observation data, and literature review to evaluate early ecological impacts. They also compared reproductive productivity and behavior of the alien species with local mantises.
According to criteria referenced from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), a species can be considered invasive if it spreads widely, survives in new habitats, and causes negative effects on ecosystems. Both Hierodula species met several of these indicators, though long-term monitoring is necessary to fully assess population-level impacts.
The introduction of alien species to Europe has often been linked to international trade and the movement of ornamental plants. Eggs or juvenile individuals can be transported unnoticed and establish populations in new habitats.
Battiston emphasized that early detection and coordination among conservation authorities are key to preventing wider ecological impacts. “We are still at an early stage of understanding the full consequences of these species’ presence,” he said.
The study concludes that H. patellifera and H. tenuidentata require close monitoring in European biodiversity management. Their impact on pollinators and protected species is a particular concern, as it could affect broader ecosystem functions.
With increasing global mobility and climate change, the risk of alien species introductions is expected to continue. The research underscores that science-based monitoring and measured management responses are crucial to prevent larger ecological consequences in the future. (Wage Erlangga)
