What are the ideal parameters for a Mantis Shrimp?

[eisaiasjr]

Hello:

What are the ideal parameters for a MantisOWLR tank?

I am planning on setting up a new 24 or 29 gal tank for a new Mantis and I was wondering what were the ideal tank parameters

Amonia : 0
Nitrites : 0
Nitrates : <20
Alk : ?
Cal : ?
Temp : ?

anything else I should look at?

Also, I am thinking of running a UV sterilizer, would this be benefitial to the Mantis?

Regards,

Estefano

 

[DanInSD]

Same parameters as you would expect: Nitrogenous wastes zero, Ca 350-400 ppm, Alk 3.5-4.0 meq/l, temp 78-82, SG 1.024-1.026, PO4 zero. Another thing to consider is that many species like really high dissolved oxygen, and are messy eaters, so a skimmer might be advisable to increase oxygenation and reduce organics buildup (which can lead to severe algae problems -- are there, doing that). Also, as with any other invertebrate, be very careful with metals, dyes, household chemicals, etc.

Dan

 

[Gonodactylus]

The only thing I would quibble with is that while water chemistry is pretty standard for most species, temperature is not. You need to know what species you have, where it came from and what was the seasonal temperature at which it was collected or what temperature it has been held at. For example, O. scyllarus from the Philippines can be found living at 30 C while during the winter in southern Queensland, they can occur at 19 C. you would not want to try to keep a cold water O.s at 30 or vice versa.

Roy

 

[eisaiasjr]

Good point

Good point

Thank you Dr Roy, very good point that I had not thought about.

I am thinking of getting an O. Scyllarus which acording to your list should be kept @ 22-28 (72 - 82 farenheit), I will try to keep my guy at a steady 78-80.

Tkx again,

Estefano