Common name: emperor shrimp

General information

The Emperor Shrimp, Periclimenes imperator, is a strikingly colored marine invertebrate known for its vibrant hues and symbiotic relationships. This small shrimp is adorned with a pattern of white, red, and purple, making it a visually appealing addition to any reef aquarium. They are often found in association with sea cucumbers and nudibranchs in the wild, which they use for transportation and as a platform to catch food particles.

Care

Emperor Shrimp are relatively easy to care for in a well-established reef aquarium. They require stable water conditions and plenty of live rock or similar structures to explore and forage on. While they are not aggressive, they should be kept with peaceful tank mates to avoid predation. A varied diet of meaty foods and commercial shrimp preparations will help maintain their health and coloration.

Reproduction

In the aquarium, breeding Emperor Shrimp can be a challenging endeavor. They have a complex life cycle that includes a planktonic larval stage, which requires specific conditions to survive. However, with careful planning and a dedicated breeding setup, it is possible for hobbyists to rear the larvae to adulthood.

Symbiosis

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Emperor Shrimp is its symbiotic relationship with larger marine invertebrates, such as sea cucumbers and nudibranchs. The shrimp gains protection and mobility from its host, while also feeding on the detritus and parasites that accumulate on the host's body, providing a cleaning service.

Habitat

Periclimenes imperator is typically found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea to the Western Pacific. They inhabit coral reefs and sandy bottoms, often at depths where their host invertebrates are found. Hobbyists should aim to replicate these conditions to provide a suitable environment for the Emperor Shrimp.