Peacock Mantis Shrimp (Africa) XLG

Quick Stats

Description

The Peacock Mantis Shrimp, native to the warm waters of the Indo-Pacific, is known for its strikingly vivid colors and fascinating behavior. It features a mesmerizing mix of greens, blues, and reds, along with distinctively powerful claws that it uses for hunting. These “smashers” can break shells and even crack glass in weaker tanks, so this species requires a robust aquarium setup and is best housed in a species-specific environment due to its aggressive nature.

The Peacock Mantis Shrimp is a highly active and curious predator, making it a captivating yet challenging aquarium inhabitant. It should be housed alone or with very sturdy tankmates, as it may attack or harm other aquarium residents. Its aggressive temperament and specialized hunting techniques mean it is unsuitable for a typical reef setup, as it can damage both invertebrates and corals.

A carnivore, the Peacock Mantis Shrimp thrives on a diet of meaty foods, including shrimp, crabs, mollusks, and other seafood. It is important to provide it with live or frozen prey to stimulate its natural hunting behavior, which can also serve as enrichment. The Peacock Mantis Shrimp is ideal for experienced aquarists who are prepared to meet its unique care needs and can create a secure environment for this powerful and visually stunning creature. With the right conditions, this mantis shrimp can live a long, fascinating life as a formidable centerpiece in a dedicated aquarium.