Holding a Huge Mantis (video )

[sunce_22]

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.

[my2rotties]

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.

[digital-audiophile]

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.

[my2rotties]

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.

[justinl]

I'm not sure where all this contention is coming from. We're all pretty much on the same side in that we all know what a bleeding stupid move this video shows. Do I wish he would get struck for his folly? No, although i admit it crossed my mind. But is that the point? nope, not to me.

Just to put things into perspective, here is a pic of the typical damage a large smasher can do when it spears a finger. The species that did this is not designed for spearing and only gets to about half the size of L. maculata (the species in the youtube clip) so you can only imagine the kind of damage a foot long spearer might do. warning: kinda graphic...
http://reefcentral.com/gallery/showp...t=1&thecat=500