Common name: squat anemone shrimp

General information

The Sexy Shrimp, scientifically known as Thor amboinensis, is a small and colorful crustacean popular among reef aquarium enthusiasts. Its common name comes from the unique way it sways its abdomen, reminiscent of a dance. This species is known for its hardiness and the ease with which it can be kept in captivity.

Sexy Shrimp are typically yellow and white with red spots and a maximum size of around 2 centimeters. They are often found in association with anemones, much like clownfish, but can also be seen living among coral rubble or live rock.

Care

Sexy Shrimp are relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for both beginner and advanced hobbyists. They require a well-established aquarium with plenty of hiding places and a stable environment. They are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods, including frozen and flake foods, but they particularly enjoy small meaty foods like brine shrimp or mysis.

Reproduction

In captivity, Sexy Shrimp are known to reproduce with relative ease. They are oviparous, with females carrying eggs until they hatch into free-swimming larvae. The larvae can be raised in a separate tank with appropriate food, such as phytoplankton and rotifers, to increase survival rates.

Symbiosis

Thor amboinensis has a commensal relationship with several anemone species, including @species:entacmaea-quadricolor and @species:stichodactyla-gigantea. They benefit from the protection provided by the anemones' stinging cells, while not harming the anemone. This relationship can be replicated in the home aquarium, providing an interesting dynamic to the tank.

Habitat

Sexy Shrimp are found in a wide range of shallow marine environments, from coral reefs to seagrass beds. They prefer warmer waters and are distributed across the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific.