Common name: hydroid shrimp
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
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumArthropodsArthropoda
- ClassMalacostracansMalacostraca
- OrderDecapodsDecapoda
- FamilyPalaemonid ShrimpPalaemonidae
- GenusGlass Anemone ShrimpPericlimenes
- Specieshydroid shrimpPericlimenes galene Holthuis, 1952
- SynonymsRapipontonia 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.