Common name: Pederson cleaner shrimp

General information

Pederson's Cleaner Shrimp, scientifically known as Periclimenes pedersoni, is a small and colorful crustacean that is popular among reef aquarium enthusiasts. This species is known for its transparent body with blue and purple accents and its symbiotic relationship with certain sea anemones. It is a peaceful invertebrate that can add both beauty and functionality to a reef tank.

Care

Pederson's Cleaner Shrimp are relatively easy to care for. They require a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding and foraging. These shrimp are sensitive to poor water quality, so regular water changes and stable water parameters are essential. They will readily accept a variety of foods, including frozen and flake foods, but they particularly enjoy feeding on parasites and dead tissue from fish, which they remove in their role as cleaner shrimp.

Reproduction

In the home aquarium, Pederson's Cleaner Shrimp can reproduce if conditions are favorable. They are known to release larvae into the water column, which can be challenging to rear due to their planktonic nature in the early stages of life. Hobbyists interested in breeding should provide a separate rearing tank with appropriate food sources for the larvae.

Symbiosis

One of the most fascinating aspects of Pederson's Cleaner Shrimp is their symbiotic relationship with certain species of sea anemones, such as @species:condylactis-gigantea and @species:lebrunia-danae. These anemones provide protection to the shrimp, while the shrimp offers cleaning services to the anemone and its fish visitors, removing parasites and dead skin.

Habitat

Periclimenes pedersoni is native to the tropical Western Atlantic, including the Caribbean Sea, the Bahamas, and Florida. In the wild, they are typically found living in association with their host anemones on coral reefs and in shallow lagoons.