[2] The distinctively ornamented species has projections on the head, prothorax, and four femora.

They have unusual leaf-like femoral projections near the joints of their four walking legs.

The lifespan of the wild cryptic mantis is unknown, but they have been known to live up to nine months in captivity (wild mantises likely live slightly longer, a year and a few months).

The mantis almost exclusively eats flying prey, with Drosophila melanogaster fruit flies being the food of preference for young nymphs in captivity.

Adults and fifth- or sixth-instar nymphs can tackle much larger prey, such as house flies, small bees, and moths.