Graham Wise
Pseudacanthops huaoraniana
Dead leaf praying mantis
For more cool macro-photos and fun animal life stories go to www.wise-photo.com.
Discovered in 2013, this new species of praying mantis is named P. huaoraniana in homage to the people of the Huaorani nationality, living in the Amazonian region of Ecuador. When first discovered in the 1950’s, the Huaorani people rapidly gained the reputation of being fierce warriors, spearing to death the Western missionaries who invaded their territory. In May 2019 the Huaorani proved themselves to be equally fierce modern warriors, winning a major legal battle to protect their territory from incursions by mining companies.
The fierce appearance of Pseudacanthops huaoraniana reflects only one aspect of Huaorani culture, which is also expressive, communicative, joyful, colorful and complex. With human culture and insect diversity alike, it is so important to look beneath the surface to see the beauty and complexity within. While appearing fierce on the outside, Pseudacanthops huaoraniana is such a delight to encounter.
Pseudacanthops huaoraniana
Dead leaf praying mantis
For more cool macro-photos and fun animal life stories go to www.wise-photo.com.
Discovered in 2013, this new species of praying mantis is named P. huaoraniana in homage to the people of the Huaorani nationality, living in the Amazonian region of Ecuador. When first discovered in the 1950’s, the Huaorani people rapidly gained the reputation of being fierce warriors, spearing to death the Western missionaries who invaded their territory. In May 2019 the Huaorani proved themselves to be equally fierce modern warriors, winning a major legal battle to protect their territory from incursions by mining companies.
The fierce appearance of Pseudacanthops huaoraniana reflects only one aspect of Huaorani culture, which is also expressive, communicative, joyful, colorful and complex. With human culture and insect diversity alike, it is so important to look beneath the surface to see the beauty and complexity within. While appearing fierce on the outside, Pseudacanthops huaoraniana is such a delight to encounter.