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The Cleaner Shrimp is one of the most beneficial and recognizable invertebrates in the reef aquarium hobby. Easily identified by its bright red-and-white striping and long white antennae, this species is famous for establishing “cleaning stations,” where it removes parasites and dead tissue from fish.
Peaceful and reef-safe, Cleaner Shrimp add both function and visual interest to reef and fish-only systems. They are active during the day, often visible perched on rockwork or approaching fish with characteristic antenna-waving behavior. Hardy and adaptable, they are an excellent choice for beginners and experienced aquarists alike.
Cleaner Shrimp can be kept singly or in pairs and are fully compatible with corals and most peaceful tank mates.
Scientific Name: Lysmata amboinensis
Common Name: Cleaner Shrimp / Skunk Cleaner Shrimp
Care Level: Beginner
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Safe: Yes
Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
Adult Size: ~2–2.5 inches
Diet: Omnivore (meaty foods, pellets, flakes; scavenges naturally)
Feeding Frequency: 1 time daily or every other day
Lighting Requirement: Low to Moderate
Water Flow: Moderate
Temperature: 72–78°F
Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG
pH: 8.1–8.4
Compatibility Notes: Safe with most reef fish; avoid aggressive predators that may eat shrimp.
Special Requirements: Sensitive to copper and rapid salinity changes; acclimate slowly.
The Cleaner Shrimp is one of the most beneficial and recognizable invertebrates in the reef aquarium hobby. Easily identified by its bright red-and-white striping and long white antennae, this species is famous for establishing “cleaning stations,” where it removes parasites and dead tissue from fish.
Peaceful and reef-safe, Cleaner Shrimp add both function and visual interest to reef and fish-only systems. They are active during the day, often visible perched on rockwork or approaching fish with characteristic antenna-waving behavior. Hardy and adaptable, they are an excellent choice for beginners and experienced aquarists alike.
Cleaner Shrimp can be kept singly or in pairs and are fully compatible with corals and most peaceful tank mates.
Scientific Name: Lysmata amboinensis
Common Name: Cleaner Shrimp / Skunk Cleaner Shrimp
Care Level: Beginner
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Safe: Yes
Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
Adult Size: ~2–2.5 inches
Diet: Omnivore (meaty foods, pellets, flakes; scavenges naturally)
Feeding Frequency: 1 time daily or every other day
Lighting Requirement: Low to Moderate
Water Flow: Moderate
Temperature: 72–78°F
Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG
pH: 8.1–8.4
Compatibility Notes: Safe with most reef fish; avoid aggressive predators that may eat shrimp.
Special Requirements: Sensitive to copper and rapid salinity changes; acclimate slowly.