Cleaner Shrimp

Cleaner Shrimp: The Reef's Essential Cleaning Station

Cleaner Shrimp (Lysmata amboinensis), also known as Skunk Cleaner Shrimp, are among the most popular and beneficial invertebrates in the reef aquarium hobby. With their striking red and white striped bodies and long white antennae, these peaceful shrimp establish cleaning stations where they pick parasites and dead tissue from fish, providing essential health services while adding vibrant color and activity to your reef.

Why Cleaner Shrimp?

• Natural cleaner that picks parasites and dead tissue from fish
• Striking red and white striped coloration with long white antennae
• Establishes visible cleaning stations - fascinating to observe
• Reef-safe and won't harm corals or other invertebrates
• Peaceful and compatible with most tank inhabitants
• Also scavenges for detritus and uneaten food
• Hardy and long-lived with proper care

Care Requirements:

• Temperature: 72-78°F
• Salinity: 1.023-1.025
• pH: 8.1-8.4
• Provide caves or overhangs for shelter and molting
• Feed meaty foods 2-3 times per week (mysis shrimp, pellets, chopped seafood)
• Moderate water flow
• Stable iodine levels support healthy molting

Behavior: Cleaner Shrimp are bold and outgoing, often waving their antennae to attract fish to their cleaning station. They will actively approach fish and perform cleaning services, making them one of the most interactive invertebrates in your reef. They can be kept in pairs or groups and are generally peaceful with each other.

Important Notes: Cleaner Shrimp are sensitive to copper-based medications and sudden changes in water parameters. Acclimate slowly using the drip method. They will molt periodically as they grow - this is normal and the shed exoskeleton should be left in the tank as the shrimp may consume it for calcium. Avoid keeping with aggressive fish or large predatory species.

Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons.

Each Cleaner Shrimp is carefully quarantined and inspected to ensure you receive a healthy, vibrantly colored specimen ready to establish cleaning stations and provide beneficial services in your reef aquarium.