Solve the Ultimate Crossword Stumper: The Post-Prayer Mystery!

Crossword Clue: It may follow praying

Answer: MANTIS

Explanation:

The crossword clue ‘It may follow praying‘ is referring to a creature known as the MANTIS. Allow me to provide you with a comprehensive explanation of the MANTIS, its characteristics, and why it fits the clue.

1. Introduction:
The MANTIS belongs to the scientific order Mantodea, and there are over 2,400 known species distributed worldwide. They are known for their unique physical traits and interesting behaviors.

2. Physical Characteristics:
– Appearance: The MANTIS is an insect that typically has a long and slender body, with three main parts: the head, thorax, and abdomen.
– Head: The MANTIS has large, compound eyes that provide excellent vision and movement detection. It also has two highly developed antennae used for sensing its surroundings.
– Forelimbs: One of the most distinctive features of the MANTIS is its powerful, grasping forelimbs, which are adapted for catching and holding their prey. These limbs resemble those of a praying person, which explains the connection with the clue.
– Coloration: MANTIDS come in various colors, including green, brown, or even pink, which helps camouflage them within their environment.

3. Hunting Techniques:
– Ambush Predators: MANTIDS are known for their ambush hunting techniques. They remain motionless, blending seamlessly into their surroundings, often resembling vegetation or flowers. When an unsuspecting insect comes close, the MANTIS swiftly strikes with its forelimbs to immobilize and capture its prey.
– Praying Position: One unique behavior some species of MANTIS exhibit is the ‘praying position.’ They often hold their forelimbs in a way that resembles a praying gesture, which further emphasizes the connection to the crossword clue.

4. Adaptations and Diet:
– Camouflage: The MANTIS‘ coloration and body shape allow them to blend in with their surroundings, providing excellent camouflage and helping them to avoid predators.
– Diet: MANTIDS are primarily insectivorous, meaning they primarily feed on other insects. They have an incredibly diverse diet and will consume a variety of insects, including flies, mosquitoes, grasshoppers, and even other MANTIDS.

5. Behavioral Traits:
– Courtship and Mating: The mating behavior of MANTIS species is often complex and distinctive. Males will approach females with caution, performing specific movements and displays to indicate their intentions.
– Sexual Cannibalism: In some MANTID species, after mating, the female may sometimes cannibalize the male, consuming him for an extra source of nutrients to aid in reproductive success.

In conclusion, the MANTIS is an insect species known for its distinctive appearance and remarkable predatory behavior. It commonly assumes a posture resembling praying, hence the connection to the crossword clue ‘It may follow praying.’ These fascinating creatures are dedicated hunters with unique abilities, contributing to their popularity as a crossword puzzle answer.