Common name: Red Camel Shrimp

General information

The Red Camel Shrimp, also known as the Hinge-Beak Shrimp or Dancing Shrimp, is a captivating species that adds both color and activity to a reef aquarium. Rhynchocinetes uritai is known for its distinct hinged rostrum that can move up and down, resembling a camel's hump, which is where it gets one of its common names. The vibrant red and white banded pattern on its body makes it a visually appealing addition to the tank.

These shrimps are nocturnal and tend to hide during the day, emerging at night to feed. They are generally peaceful but can be territorial with their own kind, so it's best to keep them singly or in pairs unless the aquarium is large enough to provide ample hiding spaces for multiple individuals.

Care

Red Camel Shrimps are relatively easy to care for but do require stable water conditions and a mature aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding and grazing. They are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods including frozen and flake foods, but they particularly enjoy a diet that includes meaty foods like mysis shrimp and brine shrimp.

It's important to note that these shrimps may prey on small, slow-moving fish or snails, so they should be kept with caution in a community tank. They are also known to pick at and consume some species of anemones and corals, which should be considered when choosing tankmates.

Reproduction

Breeding Red Camel Shrimps in captivity is challenging, as larvae require very specific conditions to survive. They go through several planktonic stages before settling down and metamorphosing into their adult form. This process is rarely successful in the home aquarium.

Habitat

Rhynchocinetes uritai is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from Japan to the Great Barrier Reef. They typically inhabit coral reefs and rocky substrates, often hiding in crevices during the day. They can be found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 30 meters deep.