mantis ID please

[fambrough]

I snapped a few pics of this recently noticed mantis. Could it be responsible for my missing emerald crab? And is it likely to be a danger to my clowns and pygmy angel? This guy stays very well hidden. I rarely see it. Please ID.
Thanks,
Ben

 

[Gonodactylus]

Hard to tell for sure from these pictures, but it is definitely a gonodactylid and probably Neogonodactylus wennerae from Florida.

They usually do not bother fish their own size, although I have seen them defensively strike a large fish and cause some damage.

Roy

 

[fambrough]

Thanks, Roy. I will research the species. It's odd that I would have a florida mantis in my tank with only pacific live rock (mostly Uaniva with a bit of Tonga). I suppose it *might* have come in on a small rock that I bought for the mushrooms that were attached, but there are no burrows or holes large enough for it. Also, I suppose it's possible a florida manits could get into pacific rock if the live rock were in a holding tub together at some time.

I will try, however unlikely, to get some better pictures. In the meantime, if anyone would like to second this ID all thoughts or comments are appreciated.

What is this guy going to eat?!

Ben

 

[Gonodactylus]

There are several Indo-Pacific speces of Gonodactylellus that it could be, but without being able to see the telson in detail, I'm only guessing.

Roy

 

[fambrough]

Thanks again for the reply, Roy.

This is by far the best I've been able to observe the mantis since its discovery. Who knows when I'll be able to see it again or observe the telson. I did look at your species page. Good stuff. As long as it doesn't bother the fish or corals, I've no problem with it.

I'll post again if I get any further view towards identification.

Cheers,
Ben