here is the video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7pjbH5OuBc4

I had one of those and returned it to the store since it was a risk to try to do anything to the fuge with him in there. Mine struck out at me and missed and I could feel the wake of the water as his spears whipped past my hand. I could hear the strike as well. I do know they are opportunistic so this guys shrimp just did not have the correct range to strike out at him. They need a certain amount of distance to strike and this guy was just lucky he was not in correct range.

I would not say that they are stupid at all. It is a very formidable predator and I saw it let a damsel fish sit on it's head for a number of days prior to killing and eating it. They love to hunt and enjoy live foods which I just did not have the stomach to give him anymore.

I hope we see a video with him getting nailed in the future. That shrimp could skewer his hand and then what is he going to do to get it out?

That's a pretty cruel thing to wish on somebody... Yes, he is taking a chance, No, its probably not something I would try, but to hope he gets struck for your entertainment is disgusting. :frusty:

I have held one of of my mantis shrimp, just a little one, but I wouldn't do it again, it was a very impulsive move due to a lack of having a net... didn't quite think that one through very well, but all still have all my fingers lol.

Everyone goes through a lapse of good judgement every now and then, its whether you learn from you mistake or not!

What he is doing is irresponsible and could lead to other people trying to do the exact same thing. I have kept one and know what they are capable of doing. This guy is being an example to other people whom might have one, or are looking into getting one. Showing that it is a a little pet is just dangerous/

Call me disgusting, I doesn't really matter much to me... I may not be as experienced as you in reef keeping but know enough about this animal to know better.

I agree. It is a terrible idea. When I grabbed mine I quickly put it back down after realizing what I did. I was very lucky and happy that my mistake was with a very small one (maybe 1 inch?). Mine was a mistake that I make sure to never make again.

That video does set a very bad example.

I also would like to add that on the zebras tail end they also have sharp spears. One good flick of the tail and you toast. They are not a toy.

:sad:

For some reason there are people in this world that like to take stupid chances for the amusement of others ie. Jackass.

I don't get it.

Did I say it would be entertainment?

What is sad is the fact that these creatures live in isolation and are not social. They hide in self constructed tunnels of sand under rocks. What he is doing is stressful to the mantis and belligerent
I am standing my ground on this one. All he is doing is showing off at the animals expense. It would be best to see him get struck so others know it is NOT okay to bother them. I don't get off on seeing people hurt but if it discourages the complete disregard of a creature, then I am all for it.

Just because it's a shrimp it still deserves to be respected.