Mantis Shrimp, anyone ?

[shilo_1]

Hubby and I went by Capitol Aquarium today, and they had a HUGE mantis. Labeled as a Tiger Mantis. Priced at $75.
It was at least about 8" long and as thick as my wrist. Black and yellow striped body.

Too cool !! Just thought I'd post in case someone was looking for one.

 

[xia]

Atlantis had one at one time for $15 I think. Those things look tasty!

 

[shilo_1]

I guess that $75 is expensive then ?! lol
I know nothing about mantis, or what they sell for....heck, I didn't know the little buggers got that big !!! I've always heard of people and their 2 or 3" shrimp. lol

 

[Frostyeel]

That kind is cool but they need a big tank with a deep deep sandbed. I settled for a little 2" one.

 

[bkmorris]

i was actually thinking of trying to convince the boss to lower the price on him... i want someone to give him a good home, but people that know mantis shrimp know he's overpriced. out of curiosity, what is a fair price for that size/type of mantis?

 

[Jacob D]

It sounds like a Lysiosquillina sp. If so that price is in the ballpark (if you find someone who actually knows what it is and wants it). As someone above mentioned this guy needs a really deep sandbed (8-12 inches) based on the size you mentioned, and deeper than that as it will grow larger if taken care of.

I don't really know why anyone would want one of these unless they're really, really into collecting or studying mantis shrimp. Many of the smaller species are interactive and don't need the specialized setup.

 

[shilo_1]

Holy cow...how big can they get ?? Is it only this type, or do they all get that big ?

 

[goslugsgo]

One was uncovered during a dredge in Hawaii that was around 15". No word on whether it was grilled or boiled.

 

[Unarce]

I feel bad for this guy. He's been in this tiny bare-bottom tank for months. Poor thing has no place to hide either.

These Zabra Mantis are extremely attractive.

 

[Jacob D]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=7580335#post7580335 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by shilo_1
Holy cow...how big can they get ?? Is it only this type, or do they all get that big ?

There are lots of different species. They range in size from tiny to big and scary. The small ones make it into the hobby more often as hitch hikers on LR. This particular species lives in a mud burrow so it would have to be collected, when it is probably best left in the ocean. 15-16" is around max size for these.


Atlantis had one that was about 12" long and was selling for $150 IIRC. Dr. Roy purchased it to study.