Smith's Mantis Shrimp - Gonodactylus smithii
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Details
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Smith's Mantis Shrimp (Gonodactylus smithii) is also known as the "Purple Meral Mantis" or "Purple-spotted Mantis" after its purple meral spot. They are normally dark green in color with lighter antennal scales, although shrimp collected from deeper water may be more reddish and some others may have red edges on each body segment. These mantis shrimp are "smashers".
Mantis Shrimp have highly specialized care and requirements and can harm tankmates or the aquarist. For in-depth information on mantis shrimp care and research, please visit That Fish Blog for PART 1 and PART 2 of Frank Indiviglio's entry, Mantis Shrimp (Order:Stomatopoda) - Breaking Research and Care in Captivity.
Mantis Shrimp are not traditional "shrimp" but are actually members of their own group known as Stomatopods. They are some of the most notorious "hitchhikers" that occasionally show up in a tank after hiding in live rock or corals. They have very powerful claws that can crush shells, split flesh or even crack aquarium glass (an acrylic tank is recommended). Mantis shrimp need meaty foods and will prey on tankmates.
Mantis shrimp earn a bad reputation but they are fascinating creatures for a species-only aquarium. Individuals like this brightly colored specimen are attractive and make the perfect "pet" for an aquarist looking for a change from the norm!
Specifications
| Specifications | |
| MPN | 1104-mantis |
| Manufacturer | That Fish Place |
| Common Name | Smith's Mantis Shrimp |
| Scientific Name | Gonodactylus smithii |
| Restricted | Yes |
| pH Range | 8.0-8.4 |
| Temperature Range | 75-82 |
| Specific Gravity Range | 1.022-1.026 |
| Community Safe | No |
| Invert Safe | No |
| Reef Safe | Yes |
| Origin | Indo-Pacific |
| Aggressiveness | High |
| Diet | Carnivore |
| Max Size (in inches) | 3.5 |
| Min Tank Size (in gallons) | 20 |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Internal Id | 49554 |
| State Restrictions |
| Alaska |
| Armed Forces Americas |
| Armed Forces Europe |
| Armed Forces Pacific |
| California |
| Hawaii |
| Puerto Rico |
Instructions
Ratings & Reviews
1 review
Little Guy with a Big Personality!
by Maegan
This species is smaller and less colorful than the Peacock/Clown variety, but has a BIG personality. I got this type because the Peacock/Clown Mantis Shrimp were constantly out of stock and Roy (for those of you familiar with the Stomatopod research from Burkeley) said this species was his favorite in terms of personality. He wasn't wrong! This guy swims around, comes out to watch you, and is very active. Mine is eating frozen really well, even though I've given him hermits to eat if he chooses.
The staff at ThatFishPlace were awesome in helping me with my order. They even delayed shipping when they were worried it was going to be too hot for organisms to survive the trip. Everything, including this guy, arrived healthy and active. I'd love to order from them again int he future.