Peppermint Shrimp
BeginnerPeppermint shrimp
Beautiful marine shrimp with red and white stripes. Valued for eating Aiptasia (pest anemone) — a beneficial cleaner.
Difficulty
Beginner
Temperature
23〜26℃
Lifespan
2-3 years
Size
3-5cm
Diet
Leftover food, Aiptasia, pellets
About
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)
Basic Info
Origin
Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea
Lifespan
2-3 years
Size
3-5cm
Temperature
23〜26℃
Diet
Leftover food, Aiptasia, pellets
Care Guide
Tank
40L+
Role
Aiptasia pest anemone removal
Compatibility
Peaceful. Compatible with fish
Introduction
Multiple specimens more effective
Notes
May eat coral mucus
BeneficialAiptasia controlPeacefulBeginner-friendly
Peppermint Shrimp FAQ
QHow difficult is it to keep Peppermint Shrimp?
A
Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Peppermint Shrimp?
A
The ideal temperature for Peppermint Shrimp is 23〜26℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Peppermint Shrimp?
A
The average lifespan of Peppermint Shrimp is 2-3 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
QHow large does Peppermint Shrimp get?
A
Peppermint Shrimp typically reaches 3-5cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
QWhat should I feed Peppermint Shrimp?
A
Peppermint Shrimp feeds on: Leftover food, Aiptasia, pellets. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
QWhat is the typical price for Peppermint Shrimp?
A
The price of Peppermint Shrimp varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Peppermint Shrimp Q&A
Related Species
Find listings for this species
Browse Marine Fish ListingsRelated Articles
Freshwater Shrimp Compatibility Guide — Tank Mates & Breeding Setup
Guide to freshwater shrimp compatibility: safe vs dangerous tank mates, and optimal breeding environment setup.
Shrimp & Tropical Fish Community Tank Guide — Cohabiting with Cherry Shrimp
How to keep shrimp and tropical fish together: selecting shrimp-safe fish, creating hiding spots, setting up a breeding-friendly environment, and water quality management tips.
Shrimp-Safe Aquatic Plants & Care Guide
Shrimp-safe plants: pesticide risks, detoxification methods, compatible species, and fertilizer precautions for shrimp tanks.
Saltwater Fish Encyclopedia — Popular Species & Care Guide
An encyclopedia of popular saltwater fish species with care difficulty, compatibility, and tank size requirements for each.