Mantis beginner

[Willy18T]

I have a 12 gallon Acrylic that i have had as a nano reef for about 6 months and i have become very board with it so i am going to get a mantis shrimp.

From what i have seen, the type that i want to get is a peacock mantis shrimp (this is a smasher right?).

When i go to my LFS i want to make sure that i request the right invert and get the right invert so what should i refer to it as.
I also dont want to pay to much for one so what should i expect pay for the different sizes. I am hoping to get one that is about 3".

I am going to add some more sand to the tank to make it about a 4" sand bed and also get some pvc pipe to make a burrow for it. I was think that i would make it a U shape with the openings sticking out of the sand.

Pleae give my any tips what should be done to get the right invert and also care for it properly. I have read many websites and feel that i have the proper understanding to keep one of these amazing creatures.

 

[rwhhunt]

The u shape is a good idea, I have three opening, and mu peacock always keeps one closed up with LR rubble. You may experience some problems getting a peacock from your LFS.... I actually bought mine from a LFS, but it was pure luck, and they had to go and get it from atlanta, and it was the only one they had ever seen before and since... I would recommend an online etailer like liveaquaria, or fishsupply... My friend just got a P Ciliata from liveaquaria, and he (and I) are VERY Pleased! Deep sand bed is also important, mine has gotten into the habit of burying his leftovers... which isnt really a good thing, but he just won't listen when I tell him to stop. Plus i can't physically get to the corner where I think he is doing it...