Beginner Question.

[madamo]

I will be acquiring a mantis in the next few days. Could somebody comment on the following topics:

1. How should I arrange the tank. PVC/LR/Combination.
2. What type of sand should I get and how deep should the sand bed be.
3. Should I submerge the PVC in the sand or leave it on top of the sand.
4. What and how often should I feed.
5. What type of lighting is ideal and could someone describe what shell disease is.

Further, if there are any other pointers you could provide, that would also be appreciated.

Thanks.

 

[yankeereefer]

Some of your questions are going to be dependant on the type of mantis that you're getting.

Check out Roy's list (stickied at top of forum) for some basic info. Be sure to post pic upon arrival for identification

Congrats on your new acquisition!

You going to the swap today?

 

[madamo]

Yessum.

 

[DanInSD]

Most of your questions are species-dependent. For example, shell disease only affects larger smashing species and is not well-understood; and not all mantis species will accept/use a PVC burrow.

Dan