Common name: Glass 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
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumArthropodsArthropoda
- ClassMalacostracansMalacostraca
- OrderDecapodsDecapoda
- FamilyPalaemonid ShrimpPalaemonidae
- GenusGlass Anemone ShrimpPericlimenes
- SpeciesGlass Anemone ShrimpPericlimenes tenuis Bruce, 1969
- SynonymsBrucecaris 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.