Aquarium size????

[vareefer4life]

OK, I am thinking of setting up a Mantis species tank.. I'm not sure of what Mantis I will be keeping but I am curious as to what size aquariums are the best. I see many people asking about 10 gal and other sizes but I was thinking of going with a jbj 'quarium or other similar. Any suggestiions? What would be the ultimate Matis 'Quarium???

 

[DanInSD]

Depends on the mantis -- from 5 gal up to 30 depending on the species. See Roy's List (sticky on this forum) for per-species info.

Dan

 

[SoMoney]

They act kind of like insects if you ask me. There constant cleaning is Fly like. As for Small tanks, Ive asked that question since the minimum tank recommendation is 20Liters. Since they don't speak up and tell us one way or the other the Jury is still out. If you want to see them move as they do in the wild, a larger tank is needed.

If you can keep up with water changes, then a 12gallon would work, but who knows if the mantis enjoys a long stroll on the sand in search of food or doesn't mind calling for take out delivery right to his/her Den?

 

[Thurge]

I personally don't recommend a tank smaller than 10 for anything but a cave dweller (those species that Really tend to stay at home). One of the reasons I prefer bigger tanks is that evaporation has a slower effect on water quality, and these are MESSY eaters and can foul their water pretty quickly.
That being said many keep mantis in tanks smaller than 10 gallons.

And for a rough estimate on Liters to Gallons, just divide the Liters by 4. Its rough but close enough for government work.