Stomatopods on the Barbie?   9/21/06
Are the mantis shrimp for human consumption ?
<Oh yes... in many countries they are sold, cooked for consumption. RMF>

Purchasing a mantis
tried many places. my clown mantis died molting had him for 3 yrs. cant find another one.  do you know who carries it? thanks Phil <I found several ecommerce sites using a google search. You might see if a local store can special order one. Happy hunting, Don>

They Make Great Pets! (Sing it Like Porno for Pyros) Mantis Shrimps?
Thanks Jim,
I was just concerned reading so much about the rapid changes in water quality etc in a nano, that I didn't consider the 'simple' answer. Thanks again and hope that one day, one or some of you guys/gals can get over to Shanghai, I'd be glad to show you around.
Dave
Dave Hanney
>>>No problem Dave, happy to help and good luck! Mantis shrimp make GREAT pets! ;)
Jim<<<

Mantis shrimp
Hey there-
I'm looking for a supply of particular mantis shrimp to include in scientific experiments on color vision and color signaling.
Specifically, I'm looking for stomatopods of the species Odontodactylus scyllarus and Gonodactylus smithii. Since you obviously know a fair bit about the creatures, I was wondering if you knew of reliable suppliers where I could obtain about 30 or so.
Thanks very much for your time and effort. Alex
<Do know of these animals. Will refer your request to these companies. Make it known if I may be of further service. Bob Fenner>
Alexander G. Cheroske
Dept. of Biological Sciences/Marine, Estuarine and Environmental Sciences
University of Maryland, Baltimore County
Baltimore, MD 21250
cheroske@umbc.edu
Phone: 410-455-1634; Fax: 410-455-3875

Live Rock and Mantis
Dear Bob,
<Anthony Calfo in your service>
I am expecting a delivery of 60 lbs of Florida aquacultured live rock for my 75 g fish only tank.
<you will hold it separately at first to make sure that it is fully cured, correct? Never place air shipped rock directly in a display... plus it helps to bait and screen for pests and predators>
My question is, is this rock more prone to Mantis shrimp than say Pacific rock.
<nope... mantis are circumtropical... if anything, one of the more common species seen in aquaria is a little green fellow that never grows to even 2" and is completely harmless...even cute>
Either way, what is the best method of getting rid of these critters before placing the rock in the aquarium.
<suspend the rock on egg crate and bait nightly with meat food tied in a nylon stocking with a fishing line...many other ways too>
I have heard of various methods ( hi salinity dip, fresh water dip) but I'm concerned about all the good life on the rock.
<it will destroy far more good than bad... you are correct>
I look forward to your response and thank you in advance. Rocco
<kind regards, Anthony>

Someone Wanting to Get a Mantis Shrimp
I was wondering if you could tell me where I could purchase a Mantis Shrimp for my aquarium? A spearer is preferred.
<I would talk to your LFS. They get these a lot as hitchhikers on liverock and if you are nice, you may get one for free or at least real cheap.>
Thank you for your time and help. -Casey
<You are welcome. -Steven Pro>