mantis in fuge?

[CadetMKultra]

I've really wanted a mantis, ever since I caught a big five inch Squilla Empusa in NYC's East River. I'm planning to set up a 9 gallon refugium for my 24 gallon tank. Do you think a mantis might do well, or will it be too bright. Also, will it eat my pods, which are one of the main reasons for setting up the refugium? I don't want to put one in there, if he won't be happy, or if he'll compromise the effectiveness of the refugium.

 

[Robbieb2]

I have heard they can & do eat amphipods (the small guys at least!)

 

[dismalorb]

Depending on the species, it may be a better idea to get a seperate tank for a mantis shrimp. They obviously like to dig burrows and have been known to store food, which can pose nutrients problems.

Are you going to use Chaeto for the refugium?