Common name: Holthuis' Shrimp

General information

Ancylomenes holthuisi, commonly known as Holthuis' Cleaner Shrimp or Pacific Cleaner Shrimp, is a species of shrimp found in the tropical Indo-Pacific region. This species is known for its striking coloration, with a translucent body adorned with white and purple bands and long white antennae. They are a popular choice among reef aquarium hobbyists due to their beneficial cleaning behavior, where they remove parasites and dead tissue from fish.

Care

Holthuis' Cleaner Shrimp are relatively easy to care for in a reef aquarium setting. They require stable water conditions and will benefit from plenty of hiding places and live rock to explore. These shrimp are not aggressive and can be kept with a wide variety of tank mates. They are scavengers by nature and will accept a varied diet including frozen, flake, and pellet foods, but they particularly relish small meaty foods.

Reproduction

In the aquarium, reproduction of Ancylomenes holthuisi can occur if conditions are right. They are known to form monogamous pairs, and after mating, the female carries the fertilized eggs under her abdomen until they hatch. The larvae go through several planktonic stages before settling down and developing into juvenile shrimp.

Symbiosis

Ancylomenes holthuisi is often associated with anemones in the wild, similar to the relationship between clownfish and anemones. This symbiotic relationship provides the shrimp with protection from predators, while the anemone benefits from the cleaning services and food scraps provided by the shrimp.

Habitat

This species is typically found in coral reefs and associated habitats in the Indo-Pacific, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They prefer areas with strong currents and are often observed in association with anemones or coral overhangs.