need help identifying and selecting some mantis shrimps

[Danyal]

title says it all. i have been wanting a mantis since i first read about them and i think this is going to be my chance, i'd like to figure out what sp. they are and which one i should get. i didn't take these pics, a friend did. they're at a LFS and i'm seriosuly thinking about getting one in the next couple days, i've got a 29g that has been waiting for one for the last couple months and if needed i've got a rimless 10g i just broke down that i can set back up.

so far i think:
1) G. smithii or N. wennerae
2) G. affinis
3) G. viridis

 

[Pea-brain]

#1 looks like G. graphuras or G. ternatensis or G. glabrous. All are good.
#2 looks like G. chiragra maybe. I wouldn't get it.
#3 looks like G. viridis. Good.

If this 30 gallon is going to be a dedicated mantis tank these will most likely be lost among the rock. I would suggest a peacock. If this is going to be a coral tank where the mantis won't be the main attraction any of these would do great, and you could probably keep fish with no problem.

Dan

 

[Danyal]

#3 is one i'm very interested in. the tank is a 29g w/ about 20lbs of rock and another 15lbs in the sump, i was planning on adding more rock and do want it to be a reef. i don't really want to get a peacock because of how large they get and i do want to have fish.

 

[Sssnakemom31]

Sounds like a great idea!

Sounds like a great idea!

I think you will have a great set-up!! Sounds like you will have a lot of interesting things for you - and the mantis! - to look at. The little guys are so cool ... Matrix, O. havanensis, is so full of personality, he just shines!! Even if the smaller species lack physical inches, they sure don't lack presnece. Best of luck, and take a lot of photos when you get your baby home!

 

[justinl]

+1 with dan's IDs; however, #1 just doesnt say G. tern to me... G. graphurus or glabrous are definite possibilities though. I would go with either 1 or 3, whichever you prefer when you see them in person.

 

[Danyal]

which ones do you guys think would be less likely to go after my fish? should i start making a PVC cave for one and i've only got a 1~2" sandbed, should i be worried about it being to shallow.

 

[Feclar]

Sand bed should be fine

PVC pipe is a good idea but with the size and amount of liverock you have it should be fine without one.

 

[DylanE]

Are you from Woodland, Ca? because im also looking to buy a mantis and might stop by this shop if its in the area.

 

[crazyaggie05]

#1 looks just like mine, which is either a graphurus or glabrous... i can't figure out which! but he is full of pep.....