Common name: hydroid shrimp

Scientific name: Periclimenes galene Holthuis, 1952

General information

The Galene Shrimp, scientifically known as Periclimenes galene, is a small and ornate species of commensal shrimp found in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. These shrimps are known for their transparent bodies with intricate patterns of white and sometimes yellow or blue markings, which provide them with excellent camouflage among the coral reefs they inhabit.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
75 liter (20 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.022 to 1.025
Temperature
24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
Acidity
pH 8.1 to 8.4
Average size
5 cm (2″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Requires stable conditions
Diet
Omnivore Enjoys varied diet, incl. frozen foods
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Peaceful
Captive bred
No

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Arthropods
    Arthropoda
  3. Class
    Malacostracans
    Malacostraca
  4. Order
    Decapods
    Decapoda
  5. Family
    Palaemonid Shrimp
    Palaemonidae
  6. Genus
    Glass Anemone Shrimp
    Periclimenes
  7. Species
    hydroid shrimp
    Periclimenes galene Holthuis, 1952
  8. Synonyms
    Rapipontonia galene (Holthuis, 1952)

Care

Galene Shrimps are considered moderate in terms of care difficulty. They thrive in well-established reef aquariums with plenty of live rock and coral for hiding and foraging. They are peaceful and can coexist with a variety of tank mates, but due to their small size, they should not be kept with large or aggressive fish that may see them as prey.

Reproduction

In the aquarium, Periclimenes galene may breed if conditions are favorable. They have a planktonic larval stage, which can make raising the offspring challenging. The larvae require very fine food particles and stable water conditions to survive.

Symbiosis

Periclimenes galene often forms symbiotic relationships with various species of anemones, corals, and echinoderms. This mutualistic association provides the shrimp with protection from predators, while the host benefits from the shrimp's cleaning services, as it removes parasites and detritus.

Habitat

These shrimps are typically found in shallow reef environments, often associated with anemones like @species:entacmaea-quadricolor or corals such as @species:acropora. They prefer areas with moderate to strong water flow and access to a variety of microhabitats within the reef structure.