Common name: Peacock Mantis Shrimp

General information

The Peacock Mantis Shrimp, Gonodactylus smithii, is a striking member of the Stomatopoda order, known for its vibrant colors and complex behaviors. This species is not a shrimp but a stomatopod, a group that is more closely related to crabs and lobsters. They are famous for their powerful raptorial appendages, which they use to hunt and defend themselves. In the wild, they are found in shallow tropical and subtropical marine waters, often hiding in crevices or burrows.

Care

Peacock Mantis Shrimp require specialized care due to their unique needs and behaviors. They should be housed in a species-only tank with a secure lid, as they are known to break glass and escape. A sandy substrate with plenty of live rock for burrowing is essential. They are predatory and can be aggressive, so they should not be kept with other tank mates. A varied diet of meaty foods such as mollusks, crustaceans, and fish flesh is necessary for their health.

Reproduction

In captivity, breeding Peacock Mantis Shrimp can be challenging. They are solitary creatures, and males and females come together only to mate. After mating, the female lays eggs and carries them on her abdomen until they hatch. The larvae go through several planktonic stages before settling to the bottom and developing into juveniles.

Habitat

Gonodactylus smithii is typically found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the western Pacific. They inhabit coral reefs and rocky substrates, often at depths where they can easily hunt for prey and retreat to their burrows for protection.