The Ultimate Guide to Mantis Shrimp Sales
Mantis shrimp are fascinating creatures known for their vibrant colors, unique hunting abilities, and complex behaviors. As marine enthusiasts and aquarists increasingly seek to add these intriguing invertebrates to their tanks, understanding the varieties available and their specific requirements becomes essential. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of mantis shrimp, comparing different types, outlining their care needs, and offering insights into where to purchase them.
Comparison of Mantis Shrimp Types
| Type | Scientific Name | Size Range | Aggression Level | Ideal Tank Size | Diet Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peacock Mantis Shrimp | Odontodactylus scyllarus | 1″ to 6″ | Very High | 20 Gallons+ | Carnivorous, needs live food |
| Clown Mantis Shrimp | Odontodactylus cultrifer | 1″ to 6″ | Very High | 20 Gallons+ | Carnivorous, needs live food |
| Assorted Mantis Shrimp | Various | 1″ to 4″ | High | 10 Gallons+ | Carnivorous, varied diet |
Understanding Mantis Shrimp
Mantis shrimp belong to the order Stomatopoda and are often divided into two main categories based on their hunting techniques: smashing and spearers. They possess highly developed eyes and impressive claws, allowing them to hunt and defend themselves effectively.
Types of Mantis Shrimp
The most popular types of mantis shrimp include:
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Peacock Mantis Shrimp (Odontodactylus scyllarus): Known for their vivid colors and aggressive behavior, they are a favorite among aquarium enthusiasts.
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Clown Mantis Shrimp (Odontodactylus cultrifer): Similar in appearance to the peacock, they are equally colorful and aggressive.
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Assorted Mantis Shrimp: This category includes various species, often available in smaller sizes and varying colors.
Mantis Shrimp Care Requirements
Tank Setup
Mantis shrimp require a specialized environment to thrive. Here are key elements to consider:
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Tank Size: A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended for species like the Peacock and Clown Mantis Shrimp. Smaller tanks can lead to aggression and stress.
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Substrate: A sandy bottom with plenty of rubble is ideal for creating burrows and caves, which are essential for their natural behavior.
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Water Conditions: Maintaining stable water parameters (pH: 8.1-8.4, salinity: 1.020-1.025, temperature: 74-78°F) is crucial for their health.
Feeding
Mantis shrimp are carnivorous and require a diet rich in protein. Here are some feeding tips:
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Live Food: They enjoy hunting live feeder fish, crabs, and other crustaceans. This mimics their natural hunting behavior and stimulates their activity.
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Frozen Foods: Supplement their diet with frozen meaty foods like shrimp, scallops, and fish.
Where to Buy Mantis Shrimp Online
If you’re looking to purchase mantis shrimp, several reputable online retailers offer a variety of species:
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Aqua Imports (www.aqua-imports.com): Known for their quality marine life, they offer a selection of mantis shrimp.
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KP Aquatics (www.kpaquatics.com): A popular choice for aquarists, they provide various invertebrates, including mantis shrimp.
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Blue Zoo Aquatics (www.bluezooaquatics.com): Specializes in marine life, including some unique mantis shrimp options.
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SaltwaterFish (www.saltwaterfish.com): Offers a range of invertebrates and provides detailed care information.
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LiveAquaria (liveaquaria.com): Known for their extensive selection and free shipping on qualifying orders.
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That Fish Place (www.thatpetplace.com): Features various mantis shrimp but check for stock availability.
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Tank Stop (www.tankstop.com): Another option for purchasing mantis shrimp with user reviews available.
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Cabela’s (www.cabelas.com): Offers Berkley Gulp! Saltwater Mantis Shrimp for fishing enthusiasts.
Technical Features Comparison of Mantis Shrimp
| Feature | Peacock Mantis Shrimp | Clown Mantis Shrimp | Assorted Mantis Shrimp |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coloration | Bright, colorful | Colorful with patterns | Varies by species |
| Aggression | Very high | Very high | High |
| Care Difficulty | Moderate to high | Moderate to high | Moderate |
| Lifespan | 5-7 years | 5-7 years | Varies |
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Conclusion
Mantis shrimp are remarkable marine creatures that can add a vibrant touch to any aquarium. Understanding their care requirements, including tank setup, diet, and aggression levels, is crucial for their successful husbandry. With various types available and several reputable online retailers, acquiring mantis shrimp for your aquarium has never been easier. Be sure to consider their specific needs and behaviors when making your selection.
FAQ
What is a mantis shrimp?
Mantis shrimp are marine crustaceans known for their striking colors and powerful claws. They belong to the order Stomatopoda and exhibit unique hunting behaviors.
How long do mantis shrimp live?
Mantis shrimp typically live for 5-7 years in captivity, depending on the species and care conditions.
What do mantis shrimp eat?
Mantis shrimp are carnivorous and require a diet of live feeder fish, crabs, and frozen meaty foods such as shrimp and scallops.
Can mantis shrimp live with other fish?
Due to their aggressive nature, mantis shrimp should generally be housed alone or with very large fish that can defend themselves.
What size tank do mantis shrimp need?
A minimum tank size of 20 gallons is recommended for species like the Peacock and Clown Mantis Shrimp to provide adequate space and reduce aggression.
How do I set up a tank for mantis shrimp?
To set up a tank for mantis shrimp, provide a sandy substrate, plenty of rubble for hiding, live rock for caves, and maintain stable water parameters.
Where can I buy mantis shrimp online?
You can purchase mantis shrimp from several reputable online retailers, including Aqua Imports, KP Aquatics, LiveAquaria, and more.
Are mantis shrimp aggressive?
Yes, mantis shrimp are known for their high aggression levels; they should not be housed with smaller or less aggressive species.
What is the difference between smashing and spearer mantis shrimp?
Smashing mantis shrimp have powerful claws that can crush shells, while spearers have specialized claws that can stab prey.
Do mantis shrimp require special lighting?
Mantis shrimp do not require specialized lighting but benefit from standard aquarium lighting that mimics natural day-night cycles.
