Lime Green Mantis Shrimp
The Mantis shrimp (Geonodactylaceus sp.) is as beautiful as it is aggressive. This animal should be kept alone only, not with any other fish or invertebrates. There are two different types of mantis shrimp, one type is called a spearer and the other type is called a smasher. The lime green is of the smasher type, having a club shaped set of claws that the shrimp uses to crack open the shells of crabs and snails it intends to eat. These appendages are typically called raptorial legs and they operate somewhat like a switchblade. These shrimp should be kept in an aquarium with a sandy bottom, and enough rubble and live rock to allow it to create a home for itself.
This carnivorous creature should be fed a diet of live and frozen meaty foods that should include crabs, shrimp, scallops and live fish. Great caution should be exercised, as this fish could possibly strike a human hand when in the tank, which could be quite painful. In addition care should be taken when choosing an aquarium, as this shrimp has been known to shatter the thin glass of smaller aquariums. An acrylic aquarium or larger glass aquarium with thicker glass is recommended. Maximum size on the mantis will typically be about 4 inches.
Approximate arrival size: 3 to 4 inches
