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Species: Odontodactylus scyllarus

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Click on any image to see an enlargement. All photos © 2005 Roy Caldwell.

Common name: Peacock Mantis, Painted Mantis, Harlequin Mantis

Functional type: Smasher

Range: Indo-Pacific from Guam to East Africa

Habitat: Sandy, gravelly or shelly bottoms often near reefs

Depth: 3–40 m, usually 10–30 m

Home: Simple u-shaped burrow constructed from gravel, shell, LR

Diet: Generalist; gastropods, crustaceans, bivalves

Size: 3–18 cm

Color: Olive or green, orange antennal scales, uropods with red setae, red raptorial appendages

Distinguishing Characters: Leopard spots on anterior lateral carapace

Activity: Active both day and night

Aquarium Requirements:

Temperature: 22–28° C

Salinity: 33–36 PSU

Cohabitants: Most aquarium animals are not safe with large O. scyllarus

Aquarium size (adult): 100 l

Aquarium substrate: Sand and gravel, LR

Suitability for Aquarium: Excellent; largest animals (> 13 cm) can break or chip glass; large adults prone to develop shell disease; active and interactive

Availability: Commonly available from wholesalers and retailers

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External Anatomy and Explanatory Notes