Diurnal predators in dim light: the ability of mantids to prey for supper.

This article investigates the effect of different light conditions on the predation success and efficiency of the mantid species *Hierodula chinensis* Werner (Mantodea: Mantidae), which is typically considered diurnal. Through laboratory experiments simulating complete darkness, moonlight (0.1 lux), and dusk (50 lux), the study found that mantid nymphs and adults were unable to capture prey in complete darkness but showed increased predation success under moonlight and highest success at dusk. These results suggest that mantids can forage in dim light conditions such as moonlight, though with reduced efficiency compared to daylight, indicating a potential expansion of their temporal niche. The study contextualizes these findings within broader ecological patterns where some diurnal animals shift activity to nighttime due to environmental factors, predation risk, or competition, highlighting implications for understanding behavioral adaptations under changing environmental conditions including light pollution and climate change.