Hey there! As an experienced aquarium keeper, I’ve helped many folks find and care for these fascinating creatures If you’re looking to add a mantis shrimp to your collection, you’re in for a treat! These colorful little warriors are some of the most interesting pets you can keep Let me share everything I know about where to get them and what to look out for.
Quick Answer
The best places to get mantis shrimp are
- Local specialty aquarium stores
- Reputable online retailers
- Fellow hobbyists/breeders
- Sometimes through research institutions
Best Places to Buy Mantis Shrimp
1. Local Fish Stores
Your local fish store is often the best first stop. Here’s why I love buying locally:
Pros
- You can see the shrimp in person
- No shipping stress
- Immediate support if issues arise
- Build relationship with local experts
Cons:
- Limited selection
- May not always have stock
- Could be pricier than online
2. Online Retailers
I’ve had great experiences with several online vendors. Here are some reliable options:
Recommended Online Stores:
- Blue Zoo Aquatics
- LiveAquaria (Divers Den section)
- KP Aquatics
- Tampa Bay Saltwater
Pro Tip: From my experience, avoid generic “clown mantis” listings – they often aren’t accurately labeled. I once ordered what was supposed to be a Peacock Mantis and got a completely different species!
3. Private Breeders & Hobbyists
This is my favorite way to get mantis shrimp when possible:
Benefits:
- Often healthier specimens
- Direct knowledge of the animal’s history
- Usually better prices
- Supporting the hobby community
Where to Find Them:
- Local reef clubs
- Aquarium forums
- Social media groups
- Reef2Reef marketplace
What to Look for When Buying
Health Indicators
Before you hand over your cash, check these things:
- Color: Should be bright and vibrant
- Activity: Alert and responsive
- Appetite: Should show interest in food
- Appendages: All parts intact, especially the striking claws
- Eyes: Clear and moving normally
Size Considerations
Here’s what I’ve learned about sizing:
- Small Species: 2-4 inches
- Large Species: 6+ inches
- Tank Size Needed: 10 gallons per inch of shrimp (minimum)
Pricing Guide
From my experience, expect to pay:
| Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Common Species | $20-50 |
| Peacock Mantis | $100-300 |
| Rare Species | $300-500+ |
Setting Up Their Home
Before bringing your new friend home, you’ll need:
Essential Equipment:
- Acrylic tank (glass can crack!)
- 6+ inches of fine sand substrate
- Good filtration system
- Protein skimmer
- Heater (72-78°F)
- Hiding spots/caves
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 72-78°FSalinity: 1.024-1.026pH: 8.1-8.4Ammonia: 0 ppmNitrite: 0 ppmNitrate: <20 ppmCommon Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Glass Tanks: Their punches can crack glass – stick with acrylic!
- Improper Housing: Not enough substrate or hiding places
- Wrong Tank Mates: They’re predators – keep them alone
- Poor Research: Not knowing your species’ specific needs
- Rushed Setup: Tank must be fully cycled first
Feeding Your Mantis Shrimp
These little guys are hungry! Here’s what I feed mine:
- Frozen shrimp
- Small crabs
- Clams
- Mussels
- Fresh fish pieces
Feeding Schedule: 2-3 times per week
My Personal Experience
I’ve kept several mantis shrimp over the years, and lemme tell you – they’re amazing but tricky! My first one was a Purple Spot that I got from an online vendor. Despite the seller mixing up the species (advertised as a Peacock), it turned out to be an awesome pet.
Final Tips
- Research your chosen species thoroughly
- Have the tank ready before buying
- Buy from reputable sources only
- Quarantine new arrivals
- Be patient – they can be shy at first
Getting a mantis shrimp isn’t as simple as picking up a goldfish, but with proper research and preparation, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most fascinating creatures in the hobby. Remember to take your time choosing both your source and your specimen – it’ll make all the difference in your success with these incredible animals.
If you’re ready to start your mantis shrimp journey, I’d recommend starting with your local fish store or a well-reviewed online retailer. Just remember – proper preparation prevents poor performance!
Got questions about getting your own mantis shrimp? Drop ’em in the comments below – I’d love to help you out!
A Note From the Caretaker
Learn more about the peacock mantis shrimp! Did you know that, because the mantis shrimp’s club can withstand incredible force, researchers believe that understanding its structure can help design body armor, protective sports gear and aerospace equipment?
This species is found in the warm waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans.
The peacock mantis shrimp can kill prey larger than itself and typically feeds on gastropods, crabs and mollusks.
Mantis shrimp typically grow to lengths of 2 to 7 inches.
This species is not threatened.
Some large fishes make a meal of the mantis shrimp.
Learn more about the animals that share an exhibit with this one.
Buying a gift for my Mantis Shrimp!!
FAQ
Can you legally own a mantis shrimp?
Where can you find mantis shrimp?
Mantis shrimp are typically found in shallow, warm, tropical and subtropical waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. They inhabit coral reefs, rocky seabeds, and sandy areas, often digging U-shaped burrows for shelter and hunting.
How much does a mantis shrimp cost?
How much does a mantis shrimp cost ? Certain species of mantis shrimp can be found for as little as $25-40. More desirable species are those with unique and striking colors and are usually around $100.
Can I get mantis shrimp as a pet?
Key Takeaways. **Mantis Shrimp’s Impact on Aquariums:** Mantis shrimps can be both pets and pests. They are intriguing as solitary aquarium inhabitants but can predate on other marine life. **Housing and Care:** Mantis shrimps require their own tank due to their aggressive nature.
Where can I buy live mantis shrimp?
Questions? Call 1-888-842-8738 Jobs – Join our team! Live Mantis Shrimp for aquariums at the lowest prices online at That Fish Place – That Pet Place. Call 1-888-THAT-PET to order.
Where do mantis shrimp live?
Mantis shrimp are usually found in shallow subtropical or tropical waters, with some types or species occasionally found in sub-Antarctic waters. They are found along shores, usually living in an abandoned burrow to maneuver in, and bent capture prey when spotted.
What is a mantis shrimp?
A mantis shrimp. The mantis shrimp is the name given to marine crustaceans of the “Stomatopoda” order. The origin of these crustaceans goes back 400 million years making them among the planet’s most ancient animals. The ancient Assyrians called the mantis shrimp the “sea locust” while its name in modern-day Australia is the “prawn killer.”
Which countries eat mantis shrimp?
Japan, Vietnam, China, Hawaii, the Philippines, and the Mediterranean are countries that eat mantis shrimp quite often. Usually, people only target a specific species or two for consumption, and because of this the impact on the population varies by species. Researchers see some species as interesting enough to keep in aquariums.
What is a peacock mantis shrimp?
One of the most well-known and sought-after invertebrate species in the saltwater aquarium hobby, the Peacock Mantis Shrimp (Odontodactylus scyllarus) is also known as the Clown Mantis Shrimp, the Harlequin Mantis Shrimp, the Rainbow Mantis Shrimp, or the Smashing Mantis Shrimp. This species is native to the tropical Indo-Pacific.
What do mantis shrimp consume as food?
Mantis Shrimp, such as the Peacock Mantis Shrimp or Painted Mantis Shrimp (Odontodactylus scyllarus), prefer lower lighting and need rocks and sand to make a burrow. They will consume live food, like crabs, snails, shrimp, and small fish. Mantis Shrimp can also be trained to eat pellets and all types of frozen foods.