can a mantis shrimp break glass

Can Mantis Shrimp Really Break Glass Aquarium Tanks?

Mantis shrimp are marine crustaceans known for their powerful claws that can deliver devastating blows Their incredible striking power has led to tales of mantis shrimp breaking or even shattering aquarium glass But is this really possible or just an exaggerated myth?

As mantis shrimp enthusiasts my colleague and I set out to investigate whether these incredible creatures can actually break glass tanks. We analyzed numerous forum discussions and scientific studies to get to the bottom of this debate once and for all.

After extensive research, we found that some mantis shrimp do indeed have the potential to break standard glass aquariums, but the risk depends on several factors. Keep reading as we break down whether your mantis shrimp can break its tank, and tips to reduce the chances of this happening.

How Powerful is a Mantis Shrimp Strike?

Mantis shrimp have two types of raptorial appendages (claws) specialized for capturing prey – spearing and smashing. Smashing claws are more effective at breaking thick materials like snail shells and aquarium glass.

The peacock mantis shrimp (Odontodactylus scyllarus) is one of the species most notorious for breaking tanks. Its club-like smashing claws can accelerate underwater faster than a .22 caliber bullet to deliver blows packing a walloping 1500 Newtons of force.

For comparison, elite boxers punch with around 1000 Newtons of force. So a large peacock mantis could theoretically hit with the power of one and a half prize fighters!

This extreme force results from a click mechanism that stores elastic energy like a spring. When the mantis shrimp strikes, specialized saddle-shaped regions release this energy for a devastating blow.

What Factors Determine Glass Breaking Ability?

While mantis shrimp can generate enough power to break glass, the risk depends on several variables:

• Size – Larger mantis shrimp can pack more power in their blows. Adults 6 inches (15 cm) long or more pose the greatest risk.

• Species – Smashing claw species (e.g. peacock) are more likely to break glass than spearing types.

• Age – Older, mature mantis shrimp are stronger than juveniles.

• Condition – Well-fed individuals kept in proper conditions will be stronger.

• Tank Size – Too small of an enclosure increases stress and glass-breaking behavior.

• Glass Thickness – Standard 10 gallon tanks are easier to break than specialized aquariums.

So a large, adult peacock mantis in prime condition has the highest chances of breaking a regular 10 gallon tank. But other factors like personality also come into play.

Can Mantis Shrimp Break Bulletproof Glass?

Bulletproof glass is extremely strong and designed to withstand bullets from small arms fire and explosives. It would take extreme force to break even the lower levels of bulletproof glass.

According to our calculations, a mantis shrimp needs around 1500 Newtons of force to break low-grade bulletproof glass. While some large species can generate this much power, they would need to hit the same area multiple times to penetrate it.

The consensus from mantis shrimp owners is that thick bulletproof glass aquariums can withstand strikes without breaking. So these specialized tanks provide the most secure option for housing destructive mantis shrimp.

However, bulletproof glass is very heavy, expensive, and not a practical choice for most aquarists.

Can They Break Acrylic Tanks?

Acrylic aquariums are a lighter and less costly alternative to glass that many mantis shrimp owners use. Although strong, acrylic scratches easier than glass.

Compared to glass, acrylic is less prone to sudden breakage when hit by a hard force. Instead of shattering, acrylic tends to deform and bend.

However, acrylic will eventually weaken and split if the same area is hit repeatedly. Some mantis shrimp owners have reported individuals cracking acrylic tanks after months of constant pounding.

So acrylic does not fully eliminate the risk of breakage, but it does provide a safer option that withstands strikes better than standard glass. Avoiding undersized tanks that encourage glass-breaking behavior further reduces this risk.

Tips to Prevent Broken Tanks

While some very powerful mantis shrimp can break glass, choosing the right tank and proper care makes this unlikely. Here are some tips to house mantis shrimp safely:

• Select an appropriately sized tank – For larger species, 40 gallon breeders (36” x 18” footprint) are recommended

• Use acrylic instead of standard glass for security

• Ensure proper conditions – Good filtration, stable temperature, plenty of rockwork

• Avoid housing multiple mantis shrimp together

• Manage aggressive behaviors – Rearrange decor, increase tank size, or provide distractions

• Feed a varied diet – Well-fed mantis are less prone to boredom & glass striking

• Use a plastic tank or tray at the bottom to protect glass

With the right setup, most mantis shrimp enthusiasts enjoy these fascinating creatures worry-free. Breaking glass is not inevitable behavior if their needs are met.

While their glass-breaking power is exaggerated, mantis shrimp do require specialized care. With ample space, proper diet, and acrylic or reinforced tanks they make rewarding captives.

Conclusion

Mantis shrimp strike with enough force to break standard aquarium glass. But not all individuals exhibit this destructive behavior in home aquariums. Species, age, size, tank conditions and personality determine the risks.

Although some bulletproof glass can withstand strikes, acrylic tanks are lighter and more practical. Careful aquarium setup and management further reduce glass-breaking risks.

By understanding the factors involved, mantis shrimp can be safely kept to appreciate their incredible natural abilities that are exaggerated in tales of shattered glass. With appropriate tanks and care, most mantis shrimp make engaging aquarium residents.