Peppermint Shrimp

The Peppermint Shrimp (Lysmata wurdemanni) is a popular marine invertebrate known for its striking appearance and beneficial role in reef aquariums. These shrimp are particularly valued for their natural ability to control Aiptasia, a type of pest anemone.

Essential Information

• Common Names: Peppermint Shrimp, Candy Cane Shrimp, Caribbean Cleaner Shrimp
• Scientific Name: Lysmata wurdemanni
• Family: Hippolytidae
• Origin/Habitat: Native to the Western Atlantic and Caribbean, inhabiting shallow coastal waters, often found among coral reefs and rocky substrates.
• Maximum Size: Typically grows up to 2 inches (5 cm) in length.
• Lifespan: With proper care, they can live up to 2 years in captivity.
• Level of Difficulty: Easy; suitable for both novice and experienced aquarists.
• Reef Safe: Yes; they are generally considered reef-safe and are known for their beneficial role in controlling Aiptasia anemones.

Appearance & Physical Traits

• Coloration & Pattern: Notable for their translucent bodies adorned with red stripes, giving them a candy cane-like appearance.
• Body Shape & Structure: They have a slender body with long antennae, which they use to navigate and sense their environment.

Habitat & Environmental Needs

• Minimum Tank Size: A well-established aquarium of at least 10 gallons (38 liters) is recommended to provide adequate space and stable water conditions.
• Water Temperature: Prefer temperatures between 72°F and 78°F (22°C to 25.5°C).
• pH Level: Maintain between 8.1 and 8.4.
• Specific Gravity: Optimal range is 1.023 to 1.025.
• Aquascape: Provide ample live rock and hiding spots to mimic their natural habitat and offer shelter.

Diet & Feeding

• Diet Type: Omnivorous; primarily consumes detritus, leftover food, and various types of algae.
• Preferred Foods: Known for feeding on Aiptasia anemones, they also accept a variety of prepared foods, including flakes, pellets, and frozen foods.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed once daily, ensuring they receive a balanced diet to supplement their natural scavenging.

Behavior & Compatibility

• Temperament: Peaceful and non-aggressive; spends much of the day hiding and becomes more active during nighttime hours.
• Social Behavior: Compatible with a wide range of reef-safe fish and invertebrates.
• Tank Mate Compatibility: Avoid housing with aggressive predators, such as certain crabs and fish species like Triggerfish and Pufferfish, which may prey on shrimp.
• Activity Level: Primarily nocturnal; often more active during the night.

Care Considerations & Additional Notes

• Ease of Care: Easy; they are hardy and adaptable, making them suitable for various marine aquarium setups.
• Special Requirements: Ensure stable water parameters and provide plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress.
• Breeding Info: Breeding in captivity is possible; however, raising the larvae can be challenging due to their specific dietary and environmental needs.
• Additional Notes: Peppermint Shrimp are known for their beneficial role in controlling Aiptasia anemones, making them a valuable addition to reef aquariums. They are also known to clean parasites from fish, contributing to the overall health of the aquarium.