devers den mantis shrimp

[Pea-brain]

The mantis shrimp you have in diver den should have a good burrow. I dont know if it has one, but if it doesnt, especially under the intense metal halides that the picture was taken under, it can and probly will grow algae on its back. This algae will be DEADLY because it will ruin the next molt. It is almost always fatal. if it doesnt develop algae it will almost certainly get shell rot. This is also deadly, but if the animal molts before it progresses to far it should be no problem. The yellow p. ciliata I ordered from you had a few spots of shell disease, but thankfully shedded it away. I dont have specific info on this spearer, but if it like most spearers it will need a simple U shaped burrow going down as deep as the animal is long. Im moderately sure you guys are already providing proper environment, but just wanted to make sure. Also, if you provide a deep mud bed it can make its own burrow

 

[DFS]

Pea-brain,

Thank you for your concern for the mantis shrimp offered on the LiveAquaria.com site. My primary focus here at our Aquaculture Coral Facility, where all of the Divers Den items are housed and maintained, is for the well being of the hundreds of animlas we care for. You can rest assured that the animal is doing very well, and is being housed in the proper environemt.

Good to hear that your Pseudosquilla ciliata is doing well.

Happy Reefing!
Kevin Kohen
Director of LiveAquaria
Drs. Foster and Smith

 

[Pea-brain]

Yes it is doing well, or at least was. I dont know about it now. It sealed itself in its burrow like it normally does, and was showing molt behavior. Its been closed up an unusually long time even for a molt considering its size. I also understand the reason that you had trouble identifying it. It turns out that it had lost both its raptorial appendages, or spearers, so you couldnt tell if was a smasher or spearer. Anyways, good to hear that you are keeping your inhabitants happy, and as always thanks for the quick response.