Dictyoptera
are described as variably sized insects with generally filiform (long and
thin) antennae usually composed of many small segments. They have mandibulate
or biting mouthparts and legs that are roughly similar (except the Mantids
which have raptorial forelegs), most have 5 tarsi. Many species are winged
and the forewings are generally hardened into a tegmina while the hind wings
are often fan-like, the wing
buds of the nymphs do not undergo reversal (i.e. the hind wings are not
folded back over the forewings).
The
genitalia of both sexes are generally concealed, behind the 7th abdominal
segment in the female and behind the 9th in the male. Cerci are present
and males bear a pair of styles as well. No specialized stridulatory organs
are present though some Mantids do have a single ear on the metathorax which
allows them to hear the sonar of bats. The eggs are laid in an ootheca.
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