Mantis tank setup

[jeepjon]

I have a small nano reef, a 3 gallon...what species of mantis don't get too big? I would like to put a mantis in there, but I haven't been able to find a source for them...nobody in the cleveland area has one. What mail order places are the best? The 3 gallon is so that I can enjoy the amazing stomatopods, but I can't find one to enjoy! ! !

 

[PRC]

I have a Neogonodactylus wennerae which I believe maxes out at about 2.5". I got mine on Tampa Bay Saltwater LR. They had some in holding tanks when I was there, but I'm not sure if they'll ship them or not.

 

[jeepjon]

Thanks for the info, it would probably be very expensive for me to have it shipped, too...even if I wanted that...maybe I'll try to order it through an LFS...I just don't want to end up with a clown mantis that will max out at too big for my tank!

 

[Mr.Lizard]

I got one from a post here on RC (thanks, walkietalkie!!) Some LFSs will give them to you if they find them on their live rock....Most of the ones available online are the clown/peacocks.

 

[ReneX]

Just following this thread since I've got a 3 gallon nano and I'm also looking for a small mantis

 

[jeepjon]

I just added my first shroom to the soon to be mantis tank. I hope to have xenia, Green Star Polyps, and mushroom anemones in the tank with the mantis. Does anyone else here have any suggestions for mantis cohabitants? I may add zoo's, too.

 

[Mai]

What else can go in with one?

 

[ecugman]

What kind of lights is everyone running on these minibow tanks?

I've been thinking about purchasing one to keep a mantis but would also like to keep some soft corals in there.

 

[jeepjon]

I use a coralife screw in 50/50 Powercompact 10 watt bulb. It replaces the incandescent bulb. My hairy mushroom has lost it's brilliant colors, but it's doing well....not sure if it's enough light or not...mayb it's an iodine thing, too. oh well...