Peppermint shrimp

Lysmata wurdemanni · Lysmatidae

Also known as Caribbean cleaner shrimp

Beginner

Cheap, nocturnal, and the most reliable biological control for Aiptasia anemones.

In short: A peppermint shrimp needs at least 40 L (11 US gal), water at 24–27 °C (75–81 °F) and pH 8.1–8.4. It is peaceful, best kept in groups of 3 or more, and rated beginner to keep.

Updated 6 October 2026

Minimum tank: 40 L (11 US gal)
Temperature: 24–27 °C (75–81 °F)
pH: 8.1–8.4
Adult size: 5 cm (2 in)
Group size: 3+

Reef & marine husbandry

Specific gravity: 1.024–1.026
Reef safety: Reef safe
With corals: Occasionally picks at zoanthids or LPS when underfed.
With inverts: Peaceful.
Minimum in a mixed reef: 40 L (11 US gal)
Minimum fish-only (FOWLR): 40 L (11 US gal)
Aggression: None.
Feeding: Scavenges continuously.

Care requirements

Minimum tank volume: 40 L (11 US gal)
Temperature: 24–27 °C (75–81 °F)
pH: 8.1–8.4
Hardness: 8–12 dGH
Lifespan: 1–3 years
Diet: Omnivore/scavenger — detritus, Aiptasia, mysis, pellets.
Care level: Beginner

Origin & habitat

Native region: Western Atlantic
Water type: Saltwater
Biotope: Rocky reef crevices
Natural conditions: Stable salinity, plenty of rock, no copper.

Behaviour & stocking

Temperament: Peaceful
Minimum group: 3 fish
Swims: Bottom
Good tank mates: Clownfish
Gobies
Cardinalfish
Avoid: Hawkfish
Puffers
Wrasses

Breeding & difficulty

Breeding difficulty: Intermediate
Sexing: Hermaphrodite.
Notes: Breeds readily in reef tanks; larvae are eaten by fish.
Common ailments: Moult failure
Copper poisoning

Will it fit your tank?

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