Lysmata amboinensis
Due to
variations within species, your item may not look identical to the image
provided. Approximate size range may also vary between individual specimen
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Color Form: Red, White
Diet: Carnivore
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78?
F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.023-1.025
Max. Size: 2"
Origin: Africa,
Indonesia, Sri Lanka
Family: Hippolytidae
Supplements: Calcium,
Magnesium, Iodine, Trace Elements
The Cleaner Shrimp (Lysmata amboinensis) acts like the
medic of any saltwater aquarium. In fact, this active cleaner will set up shop
on live rock or coral outcroppings and wait for fish to come and be cleaned of
ectoparasites or dead tissue. Many fish value its services so highly that they
even allow the Cleaner Shrimp to clean inside of their mouths without harming
the shrimp. No matter how your fish use the Cleaner Shrimp's services, it is
easy to see why this peaceful creature is so popular amongst home aquarists.
The Cleaner Shrimp is also known as the Red Skunk Cleaner
Shrimp because of the distinct pair of bright red stripes that outline the
single white stripe running down its back. The Cleaner Shrimp is often found in
groups amongst live rock or coral. In the home aquarium, the Cleaner Shrimp
requires a similar habitat and peaceful tankmates. Some fish, such as Hawkfish
and Lionfish or predatory shrimp or crabs may see this member of the
Hippolytidae family as food.
Like other invertebrates, the Cleaner Shrimp is
intolerant of copper-based medications, high nitrate levels, and fluctuating
water parameters. The Cleaner Shrimp needs to be drip acclimated prior to
introducing to your main system. Also, proper iodine supplementation is
necessary to promote molting and growth. To supplement their diet, feed Cleaner
Shrimp freeze dried, frozen, and flake foods.
The Cleaner Shrimp L. amboinensis is also called the
Indo-Pacific White-Banded Cleaner Shrimp, Indo-Pacific White-Striped Cleaner
Shrimp, Skunk Cleaner Shrimp or the Scarlet Cleaner Shrimp.