The Transcaucasian Giant Mantis (Hierodula transcaucasica) is a large, predatory insect known for its robust size and aggressive nature. It is the subject of ongoing debate concerning whether it, and the Giant Asian Mantis (H. tenuidentata), are actually the same species. Historically, features like the colour of the spines on the forelegs was used to distinguish them (entirely black for H. transcaucasica and only black tips for H. tenuidentata), but recent studies have found these features to be unreliable. Regardless of the name used, this mantis has become a rapidly spreading invasive alien species across southern and central Europe, including countries like Greece.