Copiphora rhinoceros

Copiphora rhinoceros

Basic caresheet

Common name
Predatory rhinoceros katydid

Origin
Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama

Adult size
7–7.5 cm in females
6–6.5 cm in males

Temperature & humidity requirements
24–28 °C
70–80% humidity

Feeding source
Aquarium fish flakes
Pre-killed crickets, runner roaches etc.
Occasional fruit like apple, zucchini, banana, mango, strawberry (always pesticide-free)

Housing requirements
Plastic or glass terrarium with a well-ventilated top lid
Best substrate: coconut fiber or sphagnum moss
They like to hide under leaves (e.g. Pothos), so provide a small plant (real or fake)
Require high humidity and good ventilation
Mist every 2 days with chlorine-free water at dusk

Breeding guidelines

Both sexes should be well-fed to avoid cannibalism
Should be at least 1 month old in adult stage

Place the adult pair in a well-planted terrarium or net cage with plenty of food
Females prefer laying eggs in the base of plant stems
Offer a plant such as Strelitzia or Heliconia
Egg-laying happens at night, provide them with dark hours

Eggs hatch in 8–9 weeks
Nymphs can be kept in groups up to L2 or L3
After that, separate to prevent cannibalism
Young nymphs (especially L1–L2) need frequent misting
Misting every evening is ideal

Egg incubation guidelines

Eggs laid in the host plant will hatch naturally
If eggs are purchased or removed from the plant, follow this procedure:

Prepare a plastic container with a slightly perforated lid
Place 2–3 layers of kitchen paper at the bottom and mist until evenly moist
Avoid overwatering to prevent drowning or mold
Check every 2 days to keep paper moist
Replace paper towels weekly to avoid bacteria or mold buildup