Common name: Pliopontonia furtiva

General information

Pliopontonia furtiva is a species of pontoniine shrimp known for its cryptic lifestyle and association with certain species of sea anemones. It is a small, often overlooked invertebrate that plays a unique role in the ecology of coral reefs.

This shrimp is not commonly found in the aquarium trade, but it can be a fascinating addition for advanced hobbyists interested in symbiotic relationships and natural reef behavior.

Care

Caring for Pliopontonia furtiva requires a well-established reef aquarium with stable water conditions and suitable host anemones. They are delicate creatures and need a tank with low to moderate flow and plenty of hiding places. Their diet consists mainly of plankton and small particles they scavenge from the water column and substrate.

Reproduction

Little is known about the reproductive habits of Pliopontonia furtiva in the wild or captivity. However, like many marine invertebrates, they are likely to have a planktonic larval stage that disperses before settling down and metamorphosing into their adult form.

Symbiosis

Pliopontonia furtiva has a commensal relationship with certain sea anemones, such as those in the genus Entacmaea. The shrimp benefits from the protection provided by the anemone's stinging cells, while the anemone does not seem to be harmed or helped significantly by the presence of the shrimp.

Habitat

This species is typically found in the Indo-Pacific region, residing within the tentacles of its host anemones. They prefer shallow waters where their host anemones thrive, often on coral reefs that offer both food and shelter.