Where Can You Buy Mantis Shrimp? A Complete Guide to Finding These Fascinating Creatures

Hey there! I’ve been getting tons of questions about where to find mantis shrimp, and I totally get why – these incredible creatures are both fascinating pets and delicious seafood! Whether you’re a foodie or an aquarium enthusiast, I’m gonna break down all the best places to buy mantis shrimp.

Finding Mantis Shrimp for Your Dinner Table

Local Fish Markets – Your Best Bet!

If you’re looking to cook up some mantis shrimp here’s where I’d start

• Asian supermarkets with live tanks
• Seafood markets in coastal cities
• Premium fishmongers
• Wet markets (especially in Asian neighborhoods)
• Local fishing boats (if you’re near the coast)

Pro tip: I’ve found that Asian markets, particularly Chinese, Vietnamese, Filipino, and Thai grocery stores, are your best shot at finding fresh mantis shrimp. The key is finding stores with high turnover – that’s how you get the freshest catch!

Online Seafood Shopping Options

Can’t find any locally? No worries! Here are some reliable online sources

• Vietnamese Foods Online – They ship frozen wild-caught mantis shrimp
• Seattle Fish Company – Offers both live and frozen options
• Fulton Fish Market – Seasonal availability of fresh and frozen
• Redistribution Foods International
• Trawler Direct

For Aquarium Enthusiasts

Looking for a pet mantis shrimp? Here’s what’s typically available:

• Assorted Mantis Shrimp (Small) – Around $59.99
• Orange Meral Mantis Shrimp – Usually $79.99
• Peacock Mantis Shrimp (Medium) – About $89.99
• Smith’s Mantis Shrimp – Roughly $59.99
• Peacock Mantis Shrimp (Large) – Premium price at $129.99

Tips for Buying Live Mantis Shrimp

When picking out your mantis shrimp, here’s what I always look for:

• Active movement
• Bright colors
• Clear eyes
• Intact limbs
• Strong, alert behavior

Storage and Handling Tips

Once you’ve got your mantis shrimp, proper storage is crucial:

For Cooking:

• Live: Use same day
• Fresh: 1-2 days max in fridge
• Frozen: Up to 4 months at 0°F
• Cooked: 3-4 days in fridge

For Aquariums:

• Maintain proper water temperature
• Provide hiding spots
• Keep separate from other creatures (they’re not exactly friendly!)

Alternative Ways to Get Mantis Shrimp

If you’re feeling adventurous, you might try:

1. Fishing yourself:

   • Shore fishing with traps
   • Wading in shallow waters
   • Snorkeling
   • Scuba diving
   • Hiring a fishing boat

2. Community resources:

   • Local food forums
   • Reddit groups
   • Facebook marketplace
   • Nextdoor app
   • Local fishing communities

Quick Buying Guide

For Cooking:

Portion size: 1/3 to 1/2 pound per personMeat yield: 35-40% of total weightBest season: Year-round, but peak in warmer months

For Aquariums:

Tank size: Minimum 20 gallonsTemperament: AggressiveLifespan: 3-6 yearsCare level: Advanced

My Personal Experience

I gotta tell ya, finding mantis shrimp can be tricky sometimes! Last month, I struck out at three different markets before finally finding some at a small Vietnamese grocery store. The owner told me they get fresh deliveries every Thursday – that’s the kind of insider info that’s super helpful!

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking to cook up something special or add an fascinating creature to your aquarium, mantis shrimp are totally worth the hunt! Just remember – patience is key, and don’t be afraid to ask around at local markets. Sometimes the best finds come from the most unexpected places!

Need more specific info about mantis shrimp in your area? Drop a comment below – I’d love to help you track some down! And if you’ve found a great source for mantis shrimp, share your secret spots (or keep ’em to yourself – I won’t judge! )

Would you like me to explain or break down any part of this guide in more detail?