Common name: Henderson's hinge-beak shrimp

General information

Henderson's Cleaner Shrimp, Cinetorhynchus hendersoni, is a species of cleaner shrimp known for its symbiotic relationship with reef fish. It is characterized by its striking coloration, typically featuring a transparent body with white, red, and purple bands. This species is not as common in the aquarium trade as some other cleaner shrimps, but it is highly valued by hobbyists for its ecological role and behavior.

Care

In the aquarium, Henderson's Cleaner Shrimp requires a well-established environment with plenty of live rock for hiding and foraging. They are sensitive to water quality, so maintaining pristine conditions is crucial. A varied diet consisting of meaty foods and commercial shrimp preparations will help keep them healthy. They can be shy at first, but once acclimated, they often become more visible and active.

Reproduction

Cleaner shrimps are known to breed in captivity, although raising the larvae can be challenging. The larvae require very fine food particles and stable water conditions to survive. Hobbyists interested in breeding should set up a separate rearing tank to increase the chances of success.

Symbiosis

Henderson's Cleaner Shrimp engage in a fascinating mutualistic relationship with fish, where they clean parasites and dead tissue from the fish's skin, gills, and mouth. This cleaning behavior is beneficial for both parties; the shrimp gains a source of food, and the fish receive health benefits, including reduced stress and enhanced immune response.

Habitat

This species is found in the Indo-Pacific region, often associated with coral reefs and rocky substrates. They prefer areas with moderate to strong water flow and are typically observed at depths where reef fish are common.