Green Mantis Shrimp [Pseudosquilla ciliata]

Green Mantis Shrimp [Pseudosquilla ciliata]

Key Care Requirements:

Tank Setup: A 15-20 gallon tank is suitable, though larger is better. Provide a deep sand bed (3+ inches) for burrowing and plenty of rockwork. They are known to redecorate, so ensure rocks are stable.

Water Parameters: Maintain typical saltwater conditions: Temperature 22-26°C and pH 8.0-8.5. Regular water changes (weekly small changes) are crucial to keep nitrates low, as they are messy eaters.

Diet: As active spearers, they require a varied diet of live foods like feeder shrimp, snails, and crabs. They can be trained to take frozen foods (mysis, krill, silversides) using tongs. Feed them roughly every 3 days.

Compatibility: Due to their predatory nature, they are best kept alone. They will likely kill any fish, shrimp, or snails in the tank.

Behavior: Pseudosquilla ciliata are often seen hunting from their burrows and are known to change color during molting to match their surroundings. 

Important Considerations:

Molting: A successful molt is critical. Ensure they have a secure, dark burrow to hide in during this vulnerable time.

Handling: While smaller than some species, they can still cause painful nips. Use caution when working in the tank.