Peacock Mantis Shrimp: Price, Care & More

Nov 14, 2025 by Alex Braham 42 views

So, you're thinking about getting a peacock mantis shrimp as a pet? That's awesome! These little guys are like tiny, colorful, armored superheroes of the sea. But before you jump in, let's talk about the price, care, and everything else you need to know to keep one of these fascinating creatures happy and healthy.

Understanding the Allure of the Peacock Mantis Shrimp

The peacock mantis shrimp, scientifically known as Odontodactylus scyllarus, isn't your average aquarium pet. These crustaceans are celebrated for their dazzling colors, which range from vibrant greens and blues to fiery oranges and reds. Their appearance alone makes them a captivating addition to any saltwater aquarium. But their appeal goes far beyond just looks. The peacock mantis shrimp is also known for its incredible strength and unique hunting abilities. They possess specialized appendages called dactyl clubs, which they use to strike prey with astonishing force. This ability has earned them the nickname "thumb splitters" because they can easily break through the shells of crabs, snails, and other crustaceans. Their complex eyes, which are among the most sophisticated in the animal kingdom, allow them to see a wide range of colors and perceive depth with remarkable precision. Keeping a peacock mantis shrimp is not just about owning a pet; it's about observing a remarkable example of evolution and adaptation in your own home. Understanding their unique biology and behavior is essential for providing them with the proper care and ensuring their well-being in captivity. As we delve deeper into the specifics of peacock mantis shrimp care, remember that these are not beginner pets. They require a dedicated and knowledgeable owner who is prepared to meet their specific needs. With the right approach, however, keeping a peacock mantis shrimp can be an incredibly rewarding experience.

Peacock Mantis Shrimp Price: What to Expect

Okay, let's get down to brass tacks: how much does a peacock mantis shrimp actually cost? The price can vary quite a bit depending on a few factors. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $150 for a single peacock mantis shrimp. But here's the breakdown:

Size Matters: Smaller, juvenile mantis shrimp are usually less expensive than larger, more mature ones. This is because they're less impressive in terms of size and color, and sometimes a bit more delicate to care for.
Color Variations: Some color morphs are rarer and more sought after than others, which can drive up the price. If you're after a particularly vibrant or unusual color, be prepared to pay a premium.
Source Matters: Where you buy your mantis shrimp from can also affect the price. Local fish stores (LFS) might be a bit more expensive than online retailers, but you'll have the advantage of seeing the animal in person before you buy it. Online retailers can sometimes offer better deals, but make sure they have a good reputation for healthy, properly shipped animals.

Additional Costs to Consider

Don't forget, the initial price of the shrimp is just the tip of the iceberg. You'll also need to factor in the cost of setting up and maintaining a suitable habitat. This includes:

Tank: A species-specific tank is highly recommended. A 30-gallon tank is generally considered the minimum size for a single peacock mantis shrimp.
Filtration: A good quality filter is essential for maintaining water quality.
Substrate: Aragonite sand is a good choice for the substrate.
Rock and Decor: Provide plenty of rock and other hiding places for your shrimp to feel secure.
Heater and Thermostat: Mantis shrimp need a stable water temperature, so a heater and thermostat are necessary.
Lighting: While not essential, appropriate lighting can enhance the colors of your shrimp and promote algae growth for them to graze on.
Food: You'll need to provide a varied diet of crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish.
Water Testing Kit: Regular water testing is crucial for maintaining a healthy environment.

All these things can easily add up to several hundred dollars, so it's important to budget accordingly before you bring your new pet home.

Setting Up the Perfect Home

Alright, so you've got your peacock mantis shrimp and you're ready to set up its new digs. Here’s what you need to know to create the ultimate mantis shrimp paradise:

Tank Size: As mentioned earlier, a 30-gallon tank is the minimum, but bigger is always better. These guys are active and need room to roam.
Substrate: Aragonite sand is ideal. Aim for a depth of at least 4 inches, as they like to burrow.
Rockwork: This is crucial! Provide plenty of sturdy rocks and caves for your shrimp to hide in. Make sure the rocks are stable, as mantis shrimp are strong and can accidentally knock things over.
Water Parameters: Mantis shrimp need stable water conditions. Maintain a temperature of 72-78°F (22-26°C), a specific gravity of 1.023-1.025, and a pH of 8.1-8.4. Regular water changes (10-20% every two weeks) are essential.
Filtration: A robust filtration system is a must. A protein skimmer is highly recommended to remove organic waste.

Creating a Secure Environment

Peacock mantis shrimp are notorious for being escape artists. They can push against lids and even break glass with their powerful strike. Therefore:

Secure the Lid: Make sure the tank lid is heavy and securely fastened. You might even want to use clips or weights to keep it in place.
Consider Acrylic: If you're really worried about breakage, consider using an acrylic tank instead of glass. Acrylic is much more resistant to impacts.

Feeding Your Peacock Mantis Shrimp

Now, let's talk about food! Feeding your peacock mantis shrimp a varied and nutritious diet is essential for its health and well-being. In the wild, these guys eat a variety of crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish. In captivity, you can replicate this diet with:

Crabs: Small crabs are a great source of protein and calcium.
Shrimp: Frozen shrimp, krill, and mysis shrimp are all good options.
Snails: Snails provide essential minerals and help keep their dactyl clubs in good condition.
Small Fish: Occasional small feeder fish can provide enrichment and variety.

Feeding Tips

Feed 2-3 Times a Week: Don't overfeed your mantis shrimp. Offer a small amount of food every 2-3 days.
Observe Their Eating Habits: Watch your shrimp closely to see how much it eats and adjust the amount accordingly.
Remove Unaten Food: Uneaten food can foul the water, so remove any leftovers after a few hours.
Gut Load Your Feeders: If you're feeding live food, gut load it with nutritious food beforehand to provide extra vitamins and minerals for your shrimp.

Potential Problems and How to Handle Them

Even with the best care, problems can sometimes arise. Here are a few common issues you might encounter with your peacock mantis shrimp and how to deal with them:

Molting Problems: Mantis shrimp molt their exoskeletons as they grow. Sometimes, they can have trouble shedding their old shell. Make sure your water parameters are stable and provide plenty of calcium in their diet to help them molt successfully.
Aggression: Mantis shrimp are solitary creatures and can be aggressive towards other tank inhabitants. It's best to keep them in a species-specific tank.
Disease: Mantis shrimp are generally hardy, but they can be susceptible to certain diseases. Maintain good water quality and quarantine any new additions to prevent the spread of disease.
Tank Breakage: As mentioned earlier, mantis shrimp can break glass with their powerful strike. If you notice any cracks in your tank, repair them immediately to prevent leaks or catastrophic failure.

Seeking Help

If you're ever unsure about how to handle a problem, don't hesitate to consult with a knowledgeable aquarium expert or veterinarian. They can provide valuable advice and guidance to help you keep your mantis shrimp healthy and happy.

Are You Ready for a Peacock Mantis Shrimp?

Keeping a peacock mantis shrimp as a pet can be an incredibly rewarding experience. These fascinating creatures are intelligent, beautiful, and full of personality. However, they're not for everyone. They require a significant investment of time, money, and effort to care for properly. So, before you take the plunge, ask yourself these questions:

Do I have the resources to provide a suitable habitat?
Am I willing to commit to regular maintenance and water changes?
Can I provide a varied and nutritious diet?
Am I prepared to deal with potential problems?

If you answered yes to all these questions, then you might just be ready to welcome a peacock mantis shrimp into your home! Just remember to do your research, be patient, and enjoy the journey of getting to know these amazing creatures.