<P> Mantises are an order ( Mantodea ) of insects that contains over 2,400 species in about 430 genera in 15 families . The largest family is the Mantidae ( `` mantids '' ) . Mantises are distributed worldwide in temperate and tropical habitats . They have triangular heads with bulging eyes supported on flexible necks . Their elongated bodies may or may not have wings , but all Mantodea have forelegs that are greatly enlarged and adapted for catching and gripping prey ; their upright posture , while remaining stationary with forearms folded , has led to the common name praying mantis . </P>
<P> Mantises are an order ( Mantodea ) of insects that contains over 2,400 species in about 430 genera in 15 families . The largest family is the Mantidae ( `` mantids '' ) . Mantises are distributed worldwide in temperate and tropical habitats . They have triangular heads with bulging eyes supported on flexible necks . Their elongated bodies may or may not have wings , but all Mantodea have forelegs that are greatly enlarged and adapted for catching and gripping prey ; their upright posture , while remaining stationary with forearms folded , has led to the common name praying mantis . </P>
how did the praying mantis get its name
how did the praying mantis get its name
their upright posture , while remaining stationary with forearms folded
their upright posture , while remaining stationary with forearms folded