Mantis Shrimp setup questions

yes or you have one expensive appetizer

 

You could probably get away with a 20 gallon long (more surface) area you and have no skimmer. Just keep up with water changes and run carbon.

 

so normal cycle applys?

 

yes or your ammonia will build up from the food and eventually become toxic. Need the bacteria to break it down.

 

does This apply if i use cured lr and sand in a new tank or will i get a spike still to high for him to handle?

 

You will get a spike regardless. Your mantis may survive it, but is it really worth risking the animal and the $80 it took to get him?

 

i suppose not. my lfs has a a beautiful 3" peacock mantis for very cheap $19 and id like to get him before he gets snatched up or worse.