First records of Odontomantis (Mantodea, Hymenopodidae) in Brazil, a new allochthonous species revealed by citizen science, with notes on possible adaptation and ecological interactions

Recent citizen science observations have documented the occurrence of the Asian mantid genus Odontomantis in Brazil, with records from the cities of Boa Vista (Roraima) and Manaus (Amazonas). This represents the first evidence of the genus in South America. All available data derive from photographic records provided by non-specialists, suggesting a recent introduction, although the introduction pathways and the role of human-mediated transport remain unknown. The presence of Odontomantis in urban environments raises questions regarding its ability to establish populations and its potential ecological effects. Urban habitats such as gardens, ornamental vegetation, and fragmented green areas may facilitate its persistence during early stages of colonization. Ecological similarities with native Neotropical mantids occupying comparable microhabitats suggest that interactions with local species could occur if the introduced populations expand beyond urban areas. The detection of Odontomantis in two geographically distant cities may indicate either multiple introduction events or early dispersal within Brazil. These findings highlight the importance of citizen science as an effective tool for detecting non-native invertebrates and underscore the need for continued monitoring to assess the distribution, habitat use, and potential ecological impact of Odontomantis in the Neotropics.