How to tell what molting stage or age a vinegaroon is

[MiaPow]

From what I have read a vinegaroon goes thru a molting every year for the next four years, other then the last molting If I understand it correctly you can determine the sex of the vinegaroon but is there a way I can tell which molt or age a specimen currently is on other then the last molt? Is there also any way to tell how old a vinegaroon is after it had undergone all four molts?

 

[mantisfan101]

Best guess would be based off of size, specifically for the carapace but even then it’s going to be a rough guess. Generally the longer the “whip” or flagellum of the individual, the younger it is.

 

[MiaPow]

I just acquired four of them one is a little less then an inch and the other are about an inch not including pedipalps and tail. I wish I knew about them before, I can watch them for hours, they are so entertaining.

 

[mantisfan101]

Maybe third instar?