Mantis
Creature Guide
InvertebratesOverview
The Mantis is a giant insect creature in ARK: Scorched Earth. Known for its unique opposable digits that allow it to wield weapons and tools, it
Dossier
Wild
The existence of Empusa discipulus is both fascinating and frightening. Not only is it the only recorded insect to have developed an opposable digit, allowing it to grip objects and use tools, but it possesses a level of intelligence unrivalled among non-human species. I have found clear patterns in the sounds it makes when communicating, as though using a dialect. Observing one up close is extremely dangerous - its size, intelligence and ability to pounce from great distance mean you could be quickly swarmed and killed.
Domesticated
Successfully taming Empusa can prove highly beneficial. Its unique claws allow it to wield melee weapons like spears or pikes in battle, and use tools while harvesting resources. This makes it deadly as a mount or footsoldier and highly efficient as a gatherer.
Behavior
- Highly aggressive - attacks any medium or smaller creature on sight
- Spawns in packs of 2-3 in caves and desert dunes
- Uses pounce attack to close distance quickly
- Will swarm prey once one is alerted
- Communicates with others using what sounds like a dialect
- Can be mate-boosted when in groups
Taming
Drops
Habitat
Base Stats
Notes
- Species name: Empusa discipulus (meaning
- )
- Released in v246.0 (September 2016) with Scorched Earth
- Only creature that can wield weapons while riding (besides Wyverns and Rock Drake)
- Real-world Mantis named after mythological Greek demon Empusa
- Special Loot Chance: 30%
- Does not drop feces
- Can use Taxidermy Tool while mounted
- Egg incubation: 35-38 °C / 95-100 °F
- XP for kill: 8 (very low)