Hearing ability and angiosperm-associated mimicry boost mantis diversification

The zip file contain all supplementary files of the research. The predatory lifestyle of mantises has long intrigued biologists, yet how their defensive strategies influence diversification processes remains poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the diversification patterns of Eumantodea, focusing on the impact of two key defensive traits: mantis hearing and angiosperm-associated mimicry. Our trait-independent analyses revealed a four-stage trend in net diversification rates. We propose that the rise of angiosperms created a series of novel ecological niches for angiosperm-associated mimicry mantises, which likely accelerated their net diversification rate. On the other hand, as the natural enemies of mantises, the radiation of modern frogs, lizards, birds and mammals may explain the subsequent decline of net diversification rate in Eumantodea. The origins of mantis hearing and angiosperm-associated mimicry are hypothesized to present an “ecological escape” from Anura, Squamata or other vertebrate predators. Trait-dependent analyses indicated higher speciation rate in hearing mantises, angiosperm-associated mimicry mantises, and specialized flower-associated mimicry mantises. Using Eumantodea as a research model, our study elucidates how defensive strategies influence diversification processes and highlights the significant role of the rise of angiosperms in facilitating not only insect pollinators and herbivores, but also predatory insect groups from a macroevolutionary perspective.