Any Mantis Owners? Molting Question...

[SkinnyPete]

I've had a large male peacock mantis shrimp for about 6-7 months. He's been healthy and happy. He's molted successfully 3 times since I've had him. Unfortunately for the past 24hours, he's been stuck in a molt. He removed his abdomen, but it looks like his front few legs are stuck in the molt and he's been laying on his side half-molted for the past day. I know that the bigger they get (and he's a full 6"), the harder it is for them to molt, but I'm wondering if there is anything I can do - or do I just hope for the best but prepare for the worst?

Thanks.

- Skins

 

[Florida8]

I had a cleaner shrimp take a while to complete a molt... not sure about being able to help at all though... even more so because of yours being a mantis... Keep us posted.

 

[Sadielynn]

not sure if iodide or iodine will help at this point ....please test your levels before adding any additive ...
Alot of mantis owners on here

 

[SkinnyPete]

Most people have been urging me not to bother him during the molt and just to be patient - including adding any supplements.

He's still alive, but he's obviously stressed from the extended molt and there's no way he'll accept any food in this state, so I'm shutting of the lights, keeping the water topped off and hoping for the best.

 

[hc8719]

ever here the story about the boy who helped the butterfly get out of its cocoon...

 

[DragonForce]

Do not bother the mantis, you are very right when you say the larger they get the harder it can become. Sometimes they will loose their smashers when they dont get used often. When they die it is usually from a molt but they can take a while to molt, sometimes hiding out for up to a week, then they eat their molt. Hope this helps and good luck!