Is this a Mantis Shrimp?
 

Have had a 150 gallon tank up and running for 6 months now, and finally spotted and photographed a critter that has been in the tank from day 1, I believe. We think it is a type of shrimp (Mantis Shrimp?) that came with my live rock. It is about 2 inches long and we caught him making a clicking noise on my new SPS Monti coral. This, I am sure, explains why the 10 little crabs I got about a month ago all dissappeared within a week, while most of the snails are still alive and well. My smaller cleaner shrimp stays high in my tank corner and rarely ventures down. Is anyone familiar with this shrimp and is it going to be a problem? Pics are not great as he is very quick and does not like his picture taken. Appreciate any help:)

Most definately a mantis.try this link
http://www.ucmp.berkeley.edu/arthrop...html#directory
HTH

Yup, it's a mantis

mantis
 

my guess is a chiragra

Mantis, no doubt in my mind.

Looks like I am going Mantis shrimp fishing tonight
 

By all accounts, it appears he needs to be removed from my reef aquarium. Very interesting animal, however. Has anyone kept these in a separate tank, and if so, would a small 33 gallon tank be sufficient? What would he be ok with in terms of tank mates?

Anything you want to feed it. :)

I think that a 33gal would be more then enough, and as Scavenger said whatever you want to feed it.

Its one of those creatures that does not play very well with others but I think they are super cool.

Yep a 33 is plenty but any tank mates are really gonna be food someday.:twised:

i keep a g smithii in a 15 gallon in my room. i have a large reef tank but i tend to find myself much more interested in the mantis. they are ridiculusly smart and entertaining i would definitly recommend keeping him in a seperate tank