By Mantis shrimp are among the ocean’s most fascinating and vibrant creatures. Known for their striking colors and lightning-fast hunting skills, they’ve earned nicknames like “thumb splitters” and “peacock punchers.” Although they are not actual shrimp, mantis shrimp belong to the order Stomatopoda and are closely related to lobsters and crabs. Many marine enthusiasts are drawn to their beauty and intelligence, making them a unique addition to saltwater aquariums. But before you rush to buy one, it’s essential to understand the costs, care needs, and where to find a healthy specimen.
How Much Do Mantis Shrimp Cost?
The price of a mantis shrimp can vary depending on the species, size, and color. On average, mantis shrimp cost between $30 and $200. Common species like the peacock mantis shrimp (Odontodactylus scyllarus) typically sell for $50 to $100, while rarer species such as the zebra mantis shrimp may exceed $200. Juvenile shrimp are generally cheaper than adults because they are smaller and easier to ship.
Prices may also depend on the seller’s reputation and the shrimp’s condition. Buying from reputable marine life stores or breeders ensures a healthy and active shrimp. Always check that the animal has clear eyes, vibrant coloration, and no visible injuries.
Factors Affecting the Price
Several factors influence how much a mantis shrimp costs:
- Species and rarity: Some mantis shrimp species are rare and more colorful, driving up their value. The peacock mantis shrimp, with its neon-green body and orange spots, is highly sought after.
- Size and age: Larger and mature shrimp often cost more due to their established coloration and strength.
- Shipping and handling: Live marine shipping can add $20–$60 to the total cost, especially for overnight delivery.
- Source and collection method: Ethically sourced shrimp from sustainable harvesters may cost more but are healthier and environmentally responsible.
The Cost of Setting Up a Mantis Shrimp Tank
Owning a mantis shrimp involves more than just buying the shrimp itself. You’ll need a well-equipped aquarium designed for their powerful strikes and burrowing habits.
Tank setup costs can range between $300 and $600, depending on size and equipment. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Aquarium tank (20–30 gallons): $100–$150
- Filtration system: $50–$100
- Heater and thermometer: $30–$60
- Live rock and sand substrate: $60–$100
- Lighting system: $50–$100
- Lid or reinforced cover: $20–$40
Mantis shrimp are escape artists and can crack thin glass, so a thick acrylic tank or a reinforced glass aquarium is essential. Never house them in a community tank with other fish or invertebrates—they’re natural predators and will attack almost anything that moves.
Ongoing Maintenance and Feeding Costs
While mantis shrimp don’t need expensive diets, maintaining water quality and a proper feeding schedule adds to ongoing costs.
Monthly expenses can range from $20 to $50, covering food, water changes, and filter maintenance. Here’s what to expect:
- Food: Mantis shrimp are carnivores and thrive on frozen or live foods such as shrimp, crab, snails, and small fish. Frozen seafood from grocery stores can be an affordable option if thawed properly.
- Water changes: Saltwater mixes cost around $20 for a 50-gallon batch. Perform 10–20% water changes weekly to maintain quality.
- Electricity and filtration: Expect slight increases in energy bills for heating and filtration.
Feeding a mantis shrimp is an exciting experience, as they often exhibit hunting behavior by smashing or spearing prey with their specialized claws.
Types of Mantis Shrimp
There are over 400 species of mantis shrimp, but only a few are suitable for aquariums. The two main types are:
- Spearers: These have sharp, barbed claws for impaling soft-bodied prey like fish. They prefer sandy substrates for burrowing.
- Smashers: Known for their club-like appendages, these species crush shells and hard exoskeletons. The peacock mantis shrimp is a famous smasher species.
Common aquarium varieties include:
- Peacock Mantis Shrimp (Odontodactylus scyllarus)
- Gonodactylus smithii
- Lysiosquillina maculata (Zebra Mantis Shrimp)
- Gonodactylaceus ternatensis
Each species has unique colors, sizes, and temperaments, so research before purchasing is essential.
Care and Habitat Requirements
A mantis shrimp’s health depends heavily on water quality and tank setup. They thrive in stable environments that mimic their natural coral reef or sandy burrow habitats.
Ideal water parameters:
- Temperature: 76°F–80°F
- Salinity: 1.020–1.025
- pH: 8.1–8.4
- Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
- Nitrate: <20 ppm
Provide plenty of live rock and PVC pipes or caves for hiding. Mantis shrimp are territorial and require private spaces to feel secure. Regular monitoring of ammonia and nitrate levels helps prevent stress and disease.
Behavior and Intelligence
Mantis shrimp are not only visually stunning but also incredibly intelligent. They can recognize their owners, learn feeding patterns, and display complex hunting strategies. Their eyes are among the most advanced in the animal kingdom, capable of detecting ultraviolet and polarized light.
They are solitary creatures and highly territorial. Introducing another mantis shrimp or tank mate will likely result in aggressive behavior and injury. Observing them is fascinating—they rearrange their environment, build burrows, and even interact through tapping sounds on the tank walls.
Where to Buy Mantis Shrimp
You can purchase mantis shrimp from several sources, but choose carefully to ensure the animal’s health and ethical sourcing.
Best places to buy mantis shrimp:
- Local fish stores: These shops sometimes carry mantis shrimp, especially peacock species.
- Online marine retailers: Websites like LiveAquaria, BlueZooAquatics, and Saltwaterfish.com often list various mantis shrimp species.
- Private breeders or hobbyists: They may sell captive-bred specimens, which are healthier and adapt better to tanks.
Always verify that the shrimp is shipped overnight in temperature-controlled packaging. Check customer reviews and the store’s live arrival guarantee before placing an order.
Pros and Cons of Owning a Mantis Shrimp
Pros
- Unique colors and fascinating behavior
- Easy to feed and maintain once established
- Excellent for species-only aquariums
- Long lifespan (up to 20 years in captivity)
Cons
- Aggressive and cannot be housed with other fish
- Can break glass tanks if not reinforced
- Limited interaction compared to other marine pets
- Expensive setup for a single animal
Despite these challenges, mantis shrimp are a rewarding choice for experienced aquarists looking for a one-of-a-kind pet.
Conclusion
Mantis shrimp are more than just colorful crustaceans—they’re among the ocean’s most captivating predators. While the cost of a mantis shrimp ranges from $30 to $200, the true investment lies in providing a proper tank, quality care, and regular maintenance. Their strength, intelligence, and visual beauty make them stand out in the world of marine aquariums.
If you’re ready to commit to their specific needs and enjoy a solitary but fascinating species, a mantis shrimp can become a stunning centerpiece for your saltwater tank. With proper care, this ocean marvel will reward you with years of vibrant life and curious behavior.
FAQs
1. Are mantis shrimp legal to own?
Yes, mantis shrimp are legal to own in most regions, but always check local regulations as some areas restrict certain marine species.
2. How big do mantis shrimp get?
Most aquarium species grow between 3 and 7 inches long, though some deep-sea species can exceed 12 inches.
3. Can mantis shrimp break aquarium glass?
Yes, powerful smashers can crack thin glass. Use a thick acrylic or reinforced glass tank to prevent damage.
4. How long do mantis shrimp live?
In captivity, they can live for up to 15–20 years with proper care, diet, and stable water conditions.
5. Can mantis shrimp live with other fish?
No, mantis shrimp are highly aggressive predators and should be kept alone in a species-only tank.
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