The species of the genus are dark, somewhat flattened and cockroach-like, and often with a cuticle that is reflective and metallic in appearance.

[1][2] The phylogenetic position of Metallyticidae relative to other mantis families has been studied using both morphological and molecular characters, but consensus on its placement has not been achieved.

[4] Metallyticidae species have several autapomorphic traits, including their metallic coloration and the enlarged spine on their front legs.

They also have many plesiomorphic traits, including a relatively short pronotum and full wings in both sexes.

Most specimens for scientific study have been found in Sumatra, Borneo, Java, and the Malay Peninsula.