Mantis Shrimp

Mantis Shrimp - Odontodactylus scyllarus

The Mantis Shrimp is an incredibly intelligent and visually stunning marine predator known for its vibrant green body, iridescent coloration, and powerful raptorial appendages capable of striking prey with incredible force. Reaching an adult size of approximately 6 inches, this species is highly interactive and displays complex hunting and burrowing behaviors that fascinate advanced marine hobbyists. Mantis Shrimp are extremely territorial and predatory, often attacking crustaceans, snails, mollusks, and small fish housed in the same aquarium. Their unique personality and unmatched predatory adaptations make them one of the most captivating species in species-only marine systems.

The Mantis Shrimp thrives in species-dedicated marine aquariums with secure rockwork, deep substrate, and numerous burrowing opportunities. A minimum tank size of 30 gallons is recommended for a single specimen, with thicker aquarium glass or acrylic preferred for larger individuals due to their powerful strikes. This species should be housed alone and introduced only to stable systems designed specifically for predatory invertebrates.

As a carnivore specializing in hard-shelled prey, the Mantis Shrimp requires a varied diet of meaty marine foods and mollusks to maintain proper health and natural hunting behavior. Offer Ocean Nutrition Clams on the Half Shell, PE Mysis, Hikari Brine Shrimp, chopped shrimp, squid, and other marine-based seafoods regularly.

Approximate product size: 2-4"

We maintain a rigorous, veterinarian-approved quarantine program that includes proactive treatments, careful observation, and daily monitoring to ensure the highest standards of fish health. Our biosecurity practices reduce the risk of any cross-contamination between systems, meaning our fish are ready for your display tanks.