Cleaner Shrimp (Lysmata amboinensis)

The Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp (Lysmata amboinensis) acts like the medic of any saltwater aquarium.  Many fish value its services so highly that they even allow the Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp to clean inside of their mouths without harming the shrimp. No matter how your fish use the Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp’s services, it is easy to see why this peaceful creature is so popular amongst home aquarists.

In the home aquarium, the Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp requires a similar habitat and peaceful tankmates. Some fish, such as Hawkfish and Lionfish or predatory shrimp or crabs may see this member of the Hippolytidae family as food.

Like other invertebrates, the Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp is intolerant of copper-based medications, high nitrate levels, and fluctuating water parameters. Also, proper iodine supplementation is necessary to promote molting and growth. To supplement their diet, feed Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp freeze dried, frozen, and flake foods.