Common name: Sea Grasshopper

General information

The Mantis Shrimp, scientifically known as Squilla mantis, is a fascinating marine crustacean known for its vibrant colors and complex behaviors. It is a member of the order Stomatopoda and is not a true shrimp but rather a stomatopod, which is a distinct group of predatory marine crustaceans. Mantis shrimps are renowned for their powerful raptorial appendages, which they use to hunt and capture prey with incredible speed and force.

Care

Mantis Shrimps require specialized care due to their aggressive nature and unique requirements. They should be housed in a species-only tank with a sandy substrate and plenty of hiding places. The tank should be equipped with a secure lid, as mantis shrimps are known to be escape artists. They are carnivorous and should be fed a diet of live or frozen foods such as fish, shrimp, and mollusks.

Reproduction

In the wild, Squilla mantis engages in complex mating rituals that involve acoustic signals and elaborate dances. They lay eggs in burrows, and the females often guard the eggs until they hatch. In captivity, breeding mantis shrimps is challenging and not commonly pursued by hobbyists.

Symbiosis

While Squilla mantis does not engage in the same type of symbiotic relationships as clownfish and anemones, its burrowing behavior can impact the substrate dynamics and microhabitats within the aquarium, indirectly affecting other tank inhabitants.

Habitat

Squilla mantis is typically found in the Mediterranean Sea and adjacent Atlantic coasts. They inhabit sandy and muddy bottoms where they construct burrows. These burrows serve as both a hunting ground and a refuge from predators.