Acanthops species have an unusual degree of sexual dimorphism compared to other mantids.

The flightless female resembles a curled dead leaf folded back on itself, and weighs twice as much as the males do.

It has reduced wings that can be raised to reveal bright warning colors on the abdomen.

The male has long functional wings that resemble a flat or rolled-up dead leaf at rest.

When perched, males often assume a posture where the head, grasping legs and prothorax add to the camouflage effect by recreating the appearance of a dead leaf's shriveled petiole and stipules.