Crackling sound

[gafaru]

Everyone once in a while (several times a day actually), I hear a loud "crack" sound from within the aquarium that is accompanied by a succession of less audible "cracking" sounds. It sort of sounds like something is striking against the acrylic walls of my tank.

Anyone have an idea what it might be?

 

[Scottm]

mantis or pistol shrimp?

 

[gafaru]

Had the tank up for about 5 months now and I haven't lost any livestock. I'm guessing it's a pistol shrimp. Any way to be sure?

 

[Wood_Dog]

I have a mantis, discovered it by hearing the same sort of sounds. Then I saw it. I have also seen where it has been digging in the substrate. Noticed any snails etc gone missing? mine definitely have.

 

[gafaru]

No missing shells (so it should be a good sign right?)
I've set up a trap just to be safe.

 

[got bait?]

No missing shells (so it should be a good sign right?)

I have two mantin in my reef, and they have not touched my snails. As long as you keep them well fed with meaty foods, you could very well be OK. I love the two little guys in my tank. Very animated little creatures.

 

[demodiki]

I wouldn't leave those sadistic, pathological, sociopathic killers in my tank

J/K

But really I wouldn't.

 

[got bait?]

I actually requested LR.com send me one with my LR shipment. It was dead upon arrival, so I asked again on next load and got two, bonus. One red and one green. Feed them by hand and fish don't seem to mind them either. Do get a little noisey though. I watched one for about 20 minutes right out in the open and lights on, he demolished a vacant clam shell in my LR. 8O

 

[StripesTheEel]

DIE DIE DIE.. I have had one in my tank for 2 years and still dont know whether its a mantis or pistol..

 

[got bait?]

If you don't know what it is, doesn't sound like it's been too much of a problem. If it were a rogue Mantis you'd notice something by now.

Peacock Mantis have given the other mantis a bad rap. Peacocks are much better looking, but much more aggressive as well. Why is it that the pretty ones are always more trouble.