Common name: banded coral shrimp

Scientific name: Stenopus hispidus (Olivier, 1811)
Banded coral shrimp (Stenopus hispidus) in Japan
Gebänderte Scherengarnele (Stenopus hispidus)Closeup of a stenopus hispidus insect in the green field

General information

The Banded Coral Shrimp, Stenopus hispidus, is a striking and popular marine invertebrate in the reefkeeping hobby. Known for its vivid red and white bands and long, white antennae, this species adds both color and character to a reef aquarium. They are often referred to as "Boxing Shrimp" due to their large front claws that resemble boxing gloves. Despite their pugnacious appearance, they are generally peaceful and can be kept with a variety of tank mates.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
75 liter (20 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
Temperature
22 to 28 °C (72 to 82 °F)
Acidity
pH 8 to 8.4
Average size
9 cm (3½″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Molts regularly for growth
Diet
Carnivore Enjoys frozen and live meaty foods
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Peaceful May prey on small, slow fish
Captive bred
No

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Arthropods
    Arthropoda
  3. Class
    Malacostracans
    Malacostraca
  4. Order
    Decapods
    Decapoda
  5. Family
    Boxer Shrimp
    Stenopodidae
  6. Genus
    Banded Coral Shrimp
    Stenopus
  7. Species
    banded coral shrimp
    Stenopus hispidus (Olivier, 1811)
  8. Synonyms
    Embryocaris stylicauda Ortmann, 1893
    Squilla groenlandica Seba, 1759

Care

Banded Coral Shrimps are relatively hardy and can adapt to a range of aquarium conditions. They require a tank with plenty of hiding places and stable water quality. These shrimps are scavengers and will feed on detritus, leftover food, and sometimes even parasites on fish, making them beneficial for tank maintenance. However, they should also be provided with supplemental feedings of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp or finely chopped seafood.

Reproduction

In the home aquarium, Stenopus hispidus can breed successfully if conditions are right. They are monogamous and form long-term pairs. The female carries the eggs under her abdomen until they hatch, releasing planktonic larvae into the water column. Rearing the larvae can be challenging due to their complex life cycle and the need for specialized food and conditions.

Symbiosis

While not involved in the classic symbiotic relationships seen with clownfish and anemones, Banded Coral Shrimps do provide a cleaning service to fish, removing dead tissue and parasites. This mutualistic interaction benefits both the shrimp and the fish, although it is not as obligate or specialized as some other symbiotic relationships in the reef environment.

Habitat

Stenopus hispidus is found in a wide range of marine environments, from coral reefs to rocky substrates and seagrass beds. They are typically seen in pairs or alone, often perched on coral branches or hiding in crevices. Their natural distribution spans across the Indo-Pacific, the Red Sea, and parts of the Atlantic Ocean.