Peppermint Shrimp
Peppermint Shrimp
Available for local pickup only.
Species: Peppermint Shrimp (Lysmata wurdemanni)
Growth Form: Marine ornamental shrimp
Coloration: Semi-translucent body with red horizontal striping
Temperament: Peaceful; can be kept singly or in small groups
Tank Size: 20+ gallons
Placement: Rockwork, crevices, shaded areas
Lighting: Low to moderate
Flow: Low to moderate
Diet: Omnivore (detritus, leftover food, Aiptasia, meaty foods)
Feeding: Feed pellets, mysis, brine 2–3 times per week; may consume Aiptasia
Reef Safe: Yes (may pick at inverts if underfed)
Care Level: Easy to Moderate
Peppermint Shrimp
Available for local pickup and shipping
Common Names:
Peppermint Shrimp
Lysmata wurdemanni
Caribbean Cleaner Shrimp (informal)
Identification
Peppermint Shrimp are small, slender, and semi-translucent shrimp featuring bold red horizontal striping across their body—resembling the pattern of a peppermint candy, which gives them their name. While they blend in well among live rock, their coloration becomes more pronounced under reef lighting, especially during active periods.
Size:
Typically reaches about 1.5–2 inches (3–5 cm) in length.
Behavior & Role in a Reef Tank
Temperament:
Peaceful and social; can be kept individually or in small groups.
Habitat:
Primarily nocturnal—most active during the night or in low-light conditions. They spend the daytime hiding in rock crevices, caves, or under overhangs.
Diet:
Omnivorous—feeds on leftover food, detritus, and may consume nuisance Aiptasia anemones (behavior can vary by individual).
Compatibility & Caution
Reef-Safe:
Generally reef-safe; however, occasional picking at feather dusters or other small sessile invertebrates may occur if underfed.
Pest Control:
Widely known for helping control Aiptasia anemones, though effectiveness is not guaranteed in every individual.
Caution:
Avoid housing with large or aggressive fish, especially species known to prey on crustaceans.
Care Level
Difficulty:
Easy—well-suited for beginner to intermediate reef hobbyists.
Water Conditions:
Stable reef parameters recommended:
Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C)
Specific Gravity: 1.023–1.025
pH: 8.1–8.4
Diet:
Accepts a wide range of foods including pellets, flakes, frozen mysis, brine shrimp, and reef blends. Supplemental feeding is recommended, especially in tanks with limited natural food sources.
Tank Mates
Compatible with most peaceful reef fish, shrimp, and invertebrates.
Avoid aggressive species such as wrasses, triggers, and hawkfish that may prey on shrimp.
Fun Fact
Peppermint Shrimp are among the most popular natural pest-control invertebrates in the reef hobby due to their potential to reduce Aiptasia outbreaks. They are also known to breed in reef aquariums, adding interesting behavior and activity to your clean-up crew.