Introductions and dilemma

[Conductive]

Hey this is my first post as I'm brand new to mantis shrimp and even saltwater aquariums for that matter. It's been a sort of learn-as-I-go experience, without tragedy thankfully. I've retrofitted 2 20 watt 50/50 compact fluorescents under the hood of my little 6 gallon eclipse which I've finally got squared away.
Now that I finally have my mantis (after about a year and a half of wishing) I find out that the mantis i have, a Pseudosquilla ciliata as it turns out, will unfortunately grow to be a bit too large for my 6 gallon. I aquired it from my LFS who picked it over an "ugly green one" (I haven't seen an ugly mantis yet) at the wholesaler so wasn't able to choose. What i was wondering was if anyone could estimate how much longer can i keep him until he reaches maturity (he's about 2" now) and I have to relocate him. The species I had my eye on as a replacement is a Neogonodactylus wennerae. Would anyone be interested in a trade, or know where i can find one? Thanks in advance

 

[Pea-brain]

May I be the first to say hi! I am also new to this hobby. Man you have a ciliata!?!? Lucky! I'm jealus. P. ciliata are one of the best aquarium spearers. And they are hard to get. If I were you I would seriously consider buying a 20 gallon to house it. If you want a N. Wennerae then you could go to tampabaysaltwater.com or use this link to go to the pricing page. If I had the money and a spare 20 gallon I'd buy an N. Wennerae just to trade with you lol Then again I just think spearers are plain cool. I'm wierd like that

 

[Gonodactylus]

At 2 inches, your Pc is just becoming sexually mature. It will not grow that fast, about half and inch a year. WHile a 6 gal system is not idea, the animal should be able to make do for another year at least.

Roy

 

[Conductive]

Well that answered all of my questions, thanks for the responses! The offer for a trade still stands for the next year or so.