Description

The Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp (Lysmata amboinensis) is a vibrant and beneficial addition to marine aquariums, renowned for its striking appearance and symbiotic cleaning behavior.

🦐 Description

• Scientific Name: Lysmata amboinensis

• Common Names: Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp, Skunk Cleaner Shrimp, Pacific Cleaner Shrimp

• Size: Up to 3 inches (7.6 cm)

• Coloration: Translucent white body with a central white stripe flanked by vivid red bands; long white antennae

• Natural Habitat: Coral reefs across the Indo-Pacific, typically residing in reef caves or ledges at depths of 5–40 meters

🧪 Aquarium Care

• Tank Size: Minimum of 20 gallons

• Water Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C)

• pH Level: 8.1–8.4

• Salinity: 1.020–1.025

• Water Hardness: 8–12 dKH

• Reef Compatibility: Excellent; safe with corals and most invertebrates

• Lifespan: Up to 3 years in captivity

🥗 Diet and Feeding

While primarily known for their cleaning behavior—removing parasites and dead tissue from fish—the Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp is omnivorous and benefits from supplemental feeding. They readily accept:

• Frozen or live meaty foods (e.g., mysis shrimp, brine shrimp)

• High-quality marine pellets or flakes

• Occasional algae-based foods

Regular feeding ensures optimal health, especially in tanks with low fish populations.

🤝 Behavior and Compatibility

• Temperament: Peaceful and social; can be kept singly or in pairs

• Cleaning Behavior: Sets up “cleaning stations” where fish voluntarily visit to have parasites removed; known to clean even the mouths of larger fish

• Tankmates: Compatible with most peaceful fish; avoid housing with predatory species like lionfish or certain hawkfish that may prey on shrimp

⚠️ Special Considerations

• Acclimation: Sensitive to changes in water parameters; use a drip acclimation method to minimize stress

• Molting: Regularly molts its exoskeleton; during this time, it may hide and is more vulnerable to predators

• Medications: Avoid copper-based treatments, as they are toxic to invertebrates

📝 Summary

The Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp not only adds a splash of color to your aquarium but also contributes to the health of your fish through its natural cleaning behavior. Its peaceful nature and beneficial role make it a favorite among marine aquarists.