Common name: Glass Anemone Shrimp

Scientific name: Periclimenes tenuis Bruce, 1969
Close-up of a glass anemone shrimp (Periclimenes brevicarpalis) in the deep blue oceanMediterranean sea glass anemone shrimp - Periclimenes aegylios
Glass anemone shrimpGlass Anemone Shrimp

General information

The Glass Anemone Shrimp, Periclimenes tenuis, is a small and transparent shrimp species that is often sought after by reef aquarium hobbyists for its unique appearance and behavior. This species is known for its slender body and almost invisible look, which provides excellent camouflage against predators. The transparency of its body, with only subtle hints of color, makes it a fascinating addition to any reef tank.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
40 liter (11 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.023 to 1.026
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 Needs stable conditions & clean water
Diet
Omnivore Eats detritus, leftover food, small organisms
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Peaceful
Captive bred
No

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Arthropods
    Arthropoda
  3. Class
    Malacostracans
    Malacostraca
  4. Order
    Decapods
    Decapoda
  5. Family
    Palaemonid Shrimp
    Palaemonidae
  6. Genus
    Glass Anemone Shrimp
    Periclimenes
  7. Species
    Glass Anemone Shrimp
    Periclimenes tenuis Bruce, 1969
  8. Synonyms
    Brucecaris tenuis (Bruce, 1969)

Care

Glass Anemone Shrimps are relatively easy to care for, but they do require stable water conditions and a mature aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. They are peaceful and can be kept with a variety of tank mates, but should not be housed with aggressive fish that may prey on them. They are scavengers and will eat a variety of foods including small particulate foods, plankton, and detritus.

Reproduction

In the aquarium, Periclimenes tenuis may breed if conditions are favorable. The female carries the eggs until they hatch into free-swimming larvae. Raising the larvae can be challenging due to their small size and specific dietary requirements.

Symbiosis

Periclimenes tenuis often forms symbiotic relationships with anemones, similar to clownfish. They are known to associate with several species of anemones, which provide them with protection from predators. In return, the shrimp may help keep the anemone clean by removing detritus and uneaten food.

Habitat

This species is found in the Indo-Pacific region, often associated with coral reefs and anemones. They prefer areas with moderate to strong water flow and access to both open water and crevices for retreat.