Fire Cleaner Shrimp

About this fish

What is its maximum size?

Up to approximately 5–6 cm in length, excluding its long antennae.

Where is its origin and where is it exported from?

The Cleaner Shrimp originates from the Indo-Pacific, including areas around the Red Sea, East Africa, Indonesia, the Philippines and Australia. It is commonly exported for the aquarium trade from countries such as Indonesia and the Philippines.

Is it reef compatible?

Yes, reef safe. It is generally safe with corals and most reef invertebrates. It is popular in reef aquariums because it cleans parasites and dead tissue from fish, although it should not be relied upon as a treatment for fish diseases.

What should I feed it?

Feed a varied diet of frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood and suitable sinking marine pellets. It may also eat leftover fish food and collect food particles from the substrate. Make sure it receives enough food, particularly in aquariums with few fish.

How many can I keep?

Can be kept singly, in pairs or in small groups in a suitably sized aquarium. They often coexist well, although adequate space and feeding are important. Multiple individuals may establish a cleaning station together.

How compatible is it with other fish?

Generally peaceful and compatible with many marine community fish. It may clean larger fish at established cleaning stations, but it can be eaten by predatory fish such as lionfish, hawkfish and some triggerfish. Avoid keeping it with animals that naturally prey on shrimp.

Water parameters

• Temperature: 23–27°C

• pH: 8.1–8.4

• Specific gravity (salinity): 1.023–1.025

• Ammonia and nitrite: 0 ppm

• Nitrate: Keep as low as practical through good filtration and regular water changes.