Peacock Mantis Shrimp (Odontodactylus scyllarus) Care Guide
One of the most fascinating marine creatures — a vibrant green and red crustacean that strikes prey with club-like appendages at the speed of a bullet.
Overview
Odontodactylus scyllarus is a species in the family Odontodactylidae. One of the most fascinating marine creatures — a vibrant green and red crustacean that strikes prey with club-like appendages at the speed of a bullet. Can break aquarium glass (use acrylic) and will destroy all tank mates. Must be kept in a species-only tank. Has the most complex eyes in the animal kingdom.
Taxonomy
- Family: Odontodactylidae
- Genus: Odontodactylus
- Scientific name: Odontodactylus scyllarus
- Other names: Smasher Mantis Shrimp
- Origin: Indo-Pacific
Habitat
Odontodactylus scyllarus, the peacock mantis shrimp, occupies burrows on Indo-Pacific reefs. A powerful "smasher" predator with club-like raptorial appendages able to crack shells, it preys on snails, crabs and other invertebrates and is not reef-safe in a community sense.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 100 L
- Temperature: 24-27 °C
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Salinity: SG 1.024-1.026
- KH: 8-12 dKH
- Water flow: moderate
- Adult size: 12-18 cm
- Lifespan: 5-8 years
- Difficulty: advanced
Diet
Classified as carnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: every other day. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.
Compatibility
- Temperament: aggressive
- Position in tank: bottom
- Compatible tank mates: Nothing
- Avoid with: All Fish, All Invertebrates, Glass Tanks
Reef compatibility
Generally classified as not reef-safe: routinely feeds on corals, sessile invertebrates or ornamental shrimps and is best kept in a fish-only system.