Common name: Sea Star Shrimp

General Information

The Sea Star Shrimp, scientifically known as Periclimenes soror, is a fascinating marine crustacean that has captured the interest of many marine enthusiasts and aquarists. This shrimp is particularly known for its symbiotic relationship with sea stars, where it finds both protection and sustenance.

Remarkably, the shrimp can adapt its coloration to closely match that of its host sea star, providing effective camouflage and enhancing its ability to blend in. This unique adaptation not only helps it avoid predators but also makes it an attractive and unique addition to any marine aquarium.

This species is a wonderful example of the complex interactions in marine ecosystems, offering educational insights into symbiotic relationships.

Care

Sea Star Shrimp require a well-established marine aquarium with stable water parameters. They thrive in tanks that mimic their natural reef environment, with plenty of live rock and a host sea star to associate with. These shrimp are relatively hardy but require specific care to ensure their well-being.

A tank of at least 50 liters is recommended, with adequate filtration and stable salinity levels. The presence of a suitable host, such as a sea star, is crucial for their survival and comfort.

Diet and Feeding

In their natural habitat, Sea Star Shrimp feed on the mucus and detritus found on their sea star hosts. In captivity, they can be offered a diet of finely chopped seafood, marine pellets, and frozen foods to supplement their natural feeding habits.

Feeding should be done sparingly, as these shrimp obtain most of their nutrition from their host. Care should be taken not to overfeed, which can lead to water quality issues.

Behavior and Compatibility

Sea Star Shrimp are peaceful and can be kept with a variety of reef-safe fish and invertebrates. They are not aggressive and pose no threat to other tank inhabitants.

Their symbiotic relationship with sea stars is a key aspect of their behavior. They spend most of their time on their host, cleaning and feeding, and will rarely stray far from it.

Symbiosis

The Sea Star Shrimp is well-known for its commensalistic symbiotic relationship with sea stars. In a home aquarium, providing a compatible sea star is essential for the shrimp's well-being. This setup not only supports the shrimp's health but also offers aquarists a glimpse into the fascinating world of marine symbiosis.

Health and Common Issues

Sea Star Shrimp are generally hardy but can be sensitive to changes in water quality. Maintaining stable temperature, salinity, and pH levels is crucial for their health.

When acquiring these shrimp, look for individuals that are active and have clear, intact bodies. Avoid shrimp that appear lethargic or have visible damage.

Habitat

Sea Star Shrimp are typically found in coral reefs and rocky substrates in the Indo-Pacific region. They inhabit shallow waters, often seen clinging to their sea star hosts.

In captivity, replicating their natural habitat with live rock and a host sea star will provide the best environment for these shrimp to thrive.