Purple Spotted Mantis Shrimp (Gonodactylus smithii ) beh.

[Fb Joe]

I now have a for sure male and female in a 15 gallon tank with 20lbs LR and a 5" DSB.
Male was introduced first, a while back.
Female introduced yesterday along with 25 cerith snails (mexican variety)
Next week is when they should breed, according to cycle at least.
They have not noticed each other yet, but for sure will next week.

Sexing based upon behavior:
The Male Mantis loves his burrow in LR, closes up with custom chopped pieces of snail + LR usually comes out 12-4 pm. Closed most other times.
Might come out late at night.
Female Mantises (both of mine) burrow in the sand bed, under rubble or LR, Do not close burrow. Like excavating with sand and keeping it clean.

First mantis is still living happily with a lawnmower blenny, blennies survival is NOT based on mantid's hunger.
Ill keep you posted, and as always, Keep your fingers counted!