These insects are some of the world's most vicious predators

Sep 19, 2012 14:55 GMT  ·  By

Although most wildlife documentaries tend to focus on slightly larger predators, such as lions and tigers, natural ecosystems worldwide happen to also be home to some very vicious insects.

As shown in the video above, praying mantises need be listed under this category, given the fact that, thanks to their five eyes and formidable reflexes, they can turn pretty much all other insects into their next meal.

Thus, the cricket in this video had virtually no chances of survival.

Interestingly, praying mantises do not shy away from cannibalism, meaning that females often eat their mates once the latter's job is completed and the birth of a new generation has been secured.

On the downside, all it takes is for one run-off-the-mill chameleon to cross its path, and the praying mantis turns from top predator into prey.