Pacific Cleaner Shrimp (Lysmata Amboinensis)

Species Name : Lysmata Amboinensis

Care Level : Easy

Temperament : Peaceful

Color : 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

Lysmata Amboinensis, known by various names including Pacific Cleaner Shrimp, Scarlet Cleaner Shrimp, and Skunk Cleaner Shrimp, these shrimp play a vital role in coral reef ecosystems. Their common name is derived from the fact that a large portion of their diet is made up of dead tissue and parasites they remove from fish. 

They will set up a cleaning station on coral or a rock and wait for fish to stop by to be cleaned of dead tissue and parasites. Many fish value its services so highly that they even allow the Pacific Cleaner Shrimp to clean inside of their mouths without harming the shrimp. 

Adult shrimp can reach a body length of 5–6 centimetres (2.0–2.4 in) with two pairs of long white antennae. The body and legs are pale amber in colour with longitudinal bands on the carapace: one central white band is flanked by wider scarlet red bands. There are several symmetrical white spots on the red tail. The most anterior antennae fork into two making the shrimp appear to have three pairs of antennae. 

They are easy to keep and do not require special attention or care. The  Pacific Cleaner Shrimp is often found in groups amongst live rock or coral. In the home aquarium, the  Pacific Cleaner Shrimp requires a similar habitat and peaceful tankmates.

Lysmata Amboinensis are very peaceful shrimp. Some fish, such as Hawkfish and Lionfish or predatory shrimp or crabs may see this member of the Hippolytidae family as food.

Unfortunately, breeding  Pacific Cleaner Shrimp is extremely difficult due to the prolonged duration of larval development, punctuated by periods of high mortality.

Like other invertebrates, the  Pacific Cleaner Shrimp is intolerant of copper-based medications, high nitrate levels, and fluctuating water parameters. Also, proper iodine supplementation is necessary to promote molting and growth.

To supplement their diet, feed  Pacific Cleaner Shrimp freeze dried, frozen, and flake foods.                                                                                   

Size: Small: 3/4" to 1-1/4"; Medium: 1-1/4" to 1-3/4"; Large: 1-3/4" to 2"