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Peppermint shrimp
Beautiful marine shrimp with red and white stripes. Valued for eating Aiptasia (pest anemone) — a beneficial cleaner.
Peppermint shrimp (genus Lysmata) are small crustaceans of the family Hippolytidae native to the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea. Their candy-cane pattern of red and white stripes gives them considerable ornamental appeal in their own right. In reef aquariums they are valued primarily for their voracious predation on Aiptasia anemones (glass anemones), which can proliferate aggressively and sting corals; peppermint shrimp are among the most effective and natural biological controls available. They also scavenge detritus, leftover food, and decaying matter, contributing to aquarium hygiene. Manageable in tanks of 40 litres or more, they are peaceful toward fish and most invertebrates. Care must be taken to exclude piscivores or crustacean-eating species that may predate them.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Origin
Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea
Lifespan
2-3 years
Size
3-5cm
Temperature
23〜26℃
Leftover food, Aiptasia, pellets
40L+
Sources: LiveAquaria
Edited & verified by: br-choku editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / 環境省 特定動物リスト / 環境省 特定外来生物等一覧
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Aiptasia pest anemone removal
Peaceful. Compatible with fish
Multiple specimens more effective
May eat coral mucus
Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.
The ideal temperature for Peppermint Shrimp is 23〜26℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Peppermint Shrimp is 2-3 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Peppermint Shrimp typically reaches 3-5cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Peppermint Shrimp feeds on: Leftover food, Aiptasia, pellets. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Peppermint Shrimp varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 23, 2026