Can a Mantis really break glass?

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Q: Can a mantis shrimp really punch a hole in its aquarium glass? I mean, how can it? (Lanney, Sandia Park, New Mexico)

Answer: USATODAY.com - Shrimp spring into shattering action

 

My club is having it's annual frag swap tomorrow and I don't have time to comment right now. My comments here are merely to be subscribed to the thread so I can get back to it.

 

Aparently the only Mantis that can is a peacock and that's when they are larger. They suggest housing them in acrylic tanks. If you are interested in one I found alot of websites dedicated to only Mantis shrimp and the various species. Google Mantis Shrimp or their scientific name which I am drawing a blank on right now but it starts with a S?

 

stomatopod

 

Nemo,

There are several other species that can break the glass as well but they are rare. Most hitchhiking mantis cannot though.

Read my article for my local reef club.

http://www.seasl.org/wave/Vol 1 Num 3 Final.pdf

 

Curt,

Very good article, one of the best on keeping a Mantis I have read. I remember from a long ways back about your enthusiasm about these fascinating creatures. You obviously have alot of experience.

Also a very nice and professionally done newsletter.

I want a mantis one day.

Thanks for info,

Scott

 

great article inwall

 

nice article Curt. i was at my LFS a few weeks ago and they had an unknown mantis that was added as a filler on a shipment. it was about 5" long and had spires not clubs. luckly im a total fish geek and i bring my camara with me when i go can you id it Curt?

 

Chris,

You've seen it in person. Based on the shape of the telson (tail) I assumed I was looking at a Squilla sp. mantis.

Take a look at this picture and tell me it's close. ƒzƒ“ƒVƒƒƒR

 

Great article Curt. Hope the frag swap was a hit, was not able to make it due to work. Let IRC know if there is another one in Ill.