Quick Stats
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Care Level: Easy
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Diet: Carnivore
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Temperament: Peaceful
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Reef-Safe: Yes, with Caution
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Approximate Purchase Size: 0.75-1"
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Approximate Max Size: 2"
Overview
The Peppermint Shrimp (Lysmata sp.) name applies to a variety of Lysmata species that are distributed along the Eastern Seaboard, Gulf of Mexico, and the Caribbean. This attractive shrimp is named for the red stripes running the length of its transparent to cream-colored body. It grows to a maximum size of 2 inches.
The Peppermint Shrimp is famous for eating the nuisance Aiptasia anemone. In a reef system, the shrimp can control the spread of Aiptasia by eating the small, developing anemones. It is also a scavenger, looking for food and promoting a healthier aquarium. This shrimp will not eat corals.
During the day, the shrimp will generally hide in live rock and come out at night to forage for food. The Peppermint Shrimp is non-aggressive with fish and other invertebrates, and groups of them can cohabitate peacefully in the same reef aquarium.
It is not uncommon for peppermint shrimp to spawn when kept in groups of 2 or more. The newly hatched shrimp larvae are great food for corals and small fish.
Note: Image is a representation of what to expect. The animal you receive may vary slightly in appearance.
