Mantis Question...

[PotysGSXR]

I just recieved 40lbs of LR from florida today and looky what I found??? A small mantis (apprx. 1 in.). I don't know what kind as I personally don't know much about mantis at all, but I was wondering if I can keep him in my tank. It's a small tank (34g hex). I don't want him to keep eating my hermits or snails cuz they can sure add up. Also, should I start feeding him right away with (what?)? Thanks matis gurus!

 

[zoocrazy]

i'm like you on the fact that i don't know that much about these guys. but i do know they are better suited in their own tank(10g) or they will keep eating all your snails and hermits.you can feed them frozen foods or if ya like action place a damsel in there once every week or so. hope this helped!!

 

[PotysGSXR]

cool. thanks it did help. but him being only about an inch long right now, what should i feed him?

 

[Ms. K]

Mine loves half (maybe a quarter cube for yours) of an enriched brine shrimp cube...Omega-3 brine shrimp I think it's called. He also likes fresh scallops and ghost shrimp or feeder guppies as a snack. I doubt yours can handle a damsel yet. Mine is about 4 inches long and he won't bother to catch a quick, healthy damsel.

 

[PotysGSXR]

ooh. ok. cool thanks. I'll try the bring shrimp cube and scallops.

 

[PotysGSXR]

btw, does anyone know what kind of mantis hitchhikes on florida keyes live rock? Also, anyone have any pictures of them as adults? thanks.