Common name: Holthuis' Shrimp

General information

Periclimenes holthuisi, commonly known as Holthuis' Anemone Shrimp or White-Spotted Anemone Shrimp, is a small and colorful marine invertebrate that is popular among reef aquarium enthusiasts. This species is named after the Dutch carcinologist Lipke Holthuis in recognition of his contributions to the study of shrimps. The shrimp is easily identifiable by its translucent body adorned with white spots and patches, which provide excellent camouflage among the tentacles of its host anemones.

Care

Holthuis' Anemone Shrimp is a hardy species that adapts well to life in captivity. They require a mature aquarium with stable water conditions and plenty of live rock or coral for hiding and foraging. These shrimps are omnivorous and will accept a variety of foods, including frozen and flake foods, but they particularly enjoy small meaty foods like mysis shrimp and brine shrimp.

Reproduction

In the wild, Periclimenes holthuisi is known to reproduce through a process called sexual dimorphism, where males and females are distinctly different in size and often in coloration. In aquariums, breeding can occur if a compatible pair is established, with the female carrying the eggs until they hatch into free-swimming larvae.

Symbiosis

One of the most fascinating aspects of Holthuis' Anemone Shrimp is its symbiotic relationship with certain species of sea anemones, such as @species:entacmaea-quadricolor and @species:stichodactyla-gigantea. The shrimp gains protection from predators by living among the anemone's stinging tentacles, to which it is immune. In return, the shrimp may help keep the anemone clean by removing detritus and may also provide the anemone with nutrients through its waste.

Habitat

Periclimenes holthuisi is typically found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea to the Western Pacific. They inhabit coral reefs and are often associated with anemones, which provide them with shelter and protection. In the aquarium, they require similar conditions with plenty of hiding spots and anemone or coral hosts to mimic their natural environment.