Mantis Shrimp

[tripper]

I am looking into starting a mantis tank. I have a 20 gallon setup that I would like to use for a single mantis. The problem I have run into is that I can not find anywhere that sells them. I know that they are nuissances in any SW tank with fish or inverts, but I think it would be great to have a dedicated tank for one of these guys. Does anyone know where I could order one?

Thanks

 

[Brad]

My LFS had one just the other day. Looked to be about 2-3", which is a pretty big one. They can be very attractive when they get that big. Better have thick aquarium glass if you want to keep the big ones!

 

[tripper]

Actually, I am using an acrylic tank for that very reason. Of course, I need to find a mantis first.

My LFS had one a couple weeks ago, it was gorgeous, but I don't have the tank cycled yet so I couldn't get it. That's the only time I've seen one there.

 

[Kohan Bros.]

there are basicly two types of mantis spears and smashers the most common is the peacock a smasher they get about six inches if you have any other questions i would be glad to help you

 

[Kohan Bros.]

there are basicly two types of mantis spears and smashers the most common is the peacock a smasher they get about six inches if you have any other questions i would be glad to help you

 

[tripper]

The peacock is exactly what I'm looking for . . . I want one with a lot of color.

Is it possible to set up a reef tank with a mantis shrimp? I think it would be neat to have a bunch of colorful corals with a mantis lurking around. Let me know what you think about that. Thanks!

 

[Gatorfreak]

I have one that's about 2 inches and bright red. Smasher type. With some luck, I'll be able to ship him to you. I just gotta trap him! I have another that is about half an inch and is more greenish. Hopefully I'll have him caught soon too.

 

[seafan]

Spears have sharp "claws". While smashers have mallet like "claws" ? Right?

 

[tripper]

Is it possible to have more than one mantis in a tank if they are well fed? I know they are extremely aggressive towards just about everything else, but I wasn't sure how they would behave if they were the only inhabitants.

Also, would I be able to put some corals in a tank with a mantis? Do they destroy corals as well, or just fish and inverts?

 

[Fluff]

I don't think you can keep two together, even well fed. I also don't believe they pose a threat to corals. At least the one I had never bothered corals. Just desecrated my snail population.

 

[Kohan Bros.]

i would say skip a second manatis but they are ok with coral

 

[Kohan Bros.]

seafan yes you are correct