Mantis Shrimp

Odontodactylus scyllarus

Identification	Vivid multicolored body in green, blue, orange, and red. Large compound eyes that can perceive 16 types of color photoreceptors — extraordinary visual ability. Stomatopod, not a true shrimp.
Maximum Length	7 inches
Origin	Indo-Pacific
Minimum Tank Size	30 gallons (species-only tank)
Reef Compatibility	Not reef safe — species-only tank required

Behavior

Highly intelligent and incredibly aggressive predator. Best kept alone in a dedicated tank. Two types exist: “smashers” (club-like appendages that shatter shells and can break standard aquarium glass) and “spearers” (impale soft-bodied prey). Fascinating to observe but destructive in community tanks.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivore. Strikes and dismembers crustaceans, snails, and fish with explosive speed. Feed meaty marine foods such as shrimp, clams, and fish.

Cautions

Will destroy all tank mates. Capable of breaking standard glass aquariums with its strike — use thick acrylic or tempered glass tanks. Often accidentally introduced on live rock. If found in a display tank, remove immediately using a trap.