Hello all I have a few questions about mantis shrimp. I've been reading these forums for a few weeks now and I have finally decided to take the plunge and buy.
I live in California (North Bay Area) and search results for a local seller have been coming up empty. I really don't like taking the risk on shipping from out of state as its typically 2 or 3 times the cost and usually the animal is the only guarantee. On to the questions!
1. Does anyone know of a local pet store or member from Cali that has a mantis shrimp for sale?
2. I'm leaning more towards a spearer than a smasher- is one easier to keep over the other?
3. Acrylic tank or glass? I own all glass tanks and the only acrylic I've owned sprung a leak on a front side seam- it was a slow leak but I ended up tossing the tank because it progressively got worse as I fixed a section (110g tank too) I don't want to run into that problem again!
4. Depending on species, what tank size would house a mantis shrimp for life? Would something in the 20-30g range suffice for most?
As far as species go, I've been reading through the list stickied in this forum. With the shortage of available mantis shrimp in my area, I'm thinking I would be better off not setting my sights on one specific type, rather going with whatever is available at the time. Maybe I will just start buying out all the live rock and hope I get a hitch hiker
Thanks for reading
I live in California (North Bay Area) and search results for a local seller have been coming up empty. I really don't like taking the risk on shipping from out of state as its typically 2 or 3 times the cost and usually the animal is the only guarantee. On to the questions!
1. Does anyone know of a local pet store or member from Cali that has a mantis shrimp for sale?
2. I'm leaning more towards a spearer than a smasher- is one easier to keep over the other?
3. Acrylic tank or glass? I own all glass tanks and the only acrylic I've owned sprung a leak on a front side seam- it was a slow leak but I ended up tossing the tank because it progressively got worse as I fixed a section (110g tank too) I don't want to run into that problem again!
4. Depending on species, what tank size would house a mantis shrimp for life? Would something in the 20-30g range suffice for most?
As far as species go, I've been reading through the list stickied in this forum. With the shortage of available mantis shrimp in my area, I'm thinking I would be better off not setting my sights on one specific type, rather going with whatever is available at the time. Maybe I will just start buying out all the live rock and hope I get a hitch hiker

Thanks for reading