In Tagalog, a praying mantis is called sasamba.
This insect is known for its folded “praying” front legs, sharp eyesight, and quick movements. Praying mantises are commonly found in gardens, grassy fields, and forests across the Philippines.
This guide includes vocabulary words related to praying mantises, example sentences, and interesting facts about mantis species found in the Philippines.
Praying Mantis Vocabulary Words in Tagalog
Here are common Tagalog words connected to praying mantises and their environment:
- Sasamba / Mantis – praying mantis
- Insekto – insect
- Berde / Luntian – green
- Hayop – animal
- Damuhan – meadow
- Hardin – garden
- Nagdadasal – praying
- Damo – grass
- Hayop na walang buto – invertebrate
These words help describe the appearance, habitat, and behavior of praying mantises.
Example Sentences Using “Praying Mantis” in Tagalog
Here are simple Tagalog sentences to help you practice:
- Ang sasamba ay may matalas na paningin.
A praying mantis has good eyesight. - Ang sasamba ay napakatulin.
A praying mantis is very quick. - Ang sasamba ay maaaring iikot ang ulo nito sa bawat tagiliran.
A praying mantis can turn its head from side to side. - Ang sasamba ay marunong magbalat‑kayo.
A praying mantis can camouflage. - Ang sasamba ay kulay berde o luntian.
A praying mantis is green in color. - Ang sasamba ay kinakain ng mga ibon at mga palaka.
A praying mantis is eaten by birds and frogs. - Ang sasamba ay kumakain ng mga insectong tulad ng kuliglig.
A praying mantis eats insects like crickets. - Ang sasamba ay may malaking mga mata.
A praying mantis has big eyes. - Ang sasamba ay kakagatin ka kapag hindi ka maingat.
A praying mantis will bite you if you are not careful. - Ang sasamba ay lalaban sa mga paniki.
A praying mantis will fight off bats.
Praying Mantis Species Found in the Philippines
The Philippines is home to a wide variety of mantis species, many of which are native or endemic to the islands. Here are some notable examples:
Common Species
- Acromantis philippina – A small, widespread species found throughout the country.
- Acromantis luzonica – Also known as the Luzon mantis.
- Hierodula sp. (Giant Asian Mantis) – Large green or brown mantises commonly seen in Luzon and urban areas like Quezon City.
- Philippine Marbled Mantis (Hierodula parviceps) – Known for its mottled brown or green coloration.
- Bark Mantises (Genus Tarachodes) – Found in Panay; excellent at blending with tree bark.
- Tropidomantis sp. – Small species documented in Luzon.
Habitats and Behaviors
- Environment: Mantises thrive in forests, gardens, farms, and even urban areas.
- Hunting: They are ambush predators that stay still on leaves or branches, waiting for insects like flies, moths, and crickets.
- Defense: Some species have brightly colored undersides used to scare predators.
- Life Cycle: Mantises hatch from ootheca (egg cases) and grow through several stages before becoming adults.
How to Identify a Praying Mantis
- Color: Ranges from bright green to mottled brown, depending on whether they mimic leaves or bark.
- Size: Varies from small species like Acromantis to large “giant” mantids.
- Body Structure: They have raptorial forelegs for catching prey and wings that cover their abdomen once they reach adulthood.
Conclusion
Learning how to say praying mantis in Tagalog helps you describe insects, nature, and wildlife in everyday conversations. These vocabulary words and facts are great for kids, students, and anyone exploring Filipino language and biodiversity.