Curly Que Pistol Shrimp
(Alpheus armatus)
Alpheus Shrimp should be added to well established aquariums with plenty of rockwork, cracks, caves, crevices and a sand bed for resting or hiding. Generally found hiding among the reefs in sand caves they build. Alpheus Shrimp will build a symbiotic relationship with Amblyeleotris or Stonogobiops Gobies. Shrimp do not see well and are warned of danger by their Goby and Shrimp share food with their Gobies. Invertebrates do not tolerate copper medications. Alpheus Shrimp are great for beginner hobbyists as they are peaceful and quit easy to care for. Be sure to monitor Iodine levels so that Shrimp are able to molt.
The Pistol Shrimp is also known as the Snapping Shrimp. Not often seen in the aquarium trade. Pistol Shrimp have a pincher that opens and closes moving water which makes a loud pistol like sound. Pistol Shrimp can be brown, orange, red or white spotted with white antennae with dark bands. Pistol Shrimp can grow to 1.5".
Water conditions: Salinity 1.023 - 1.025 Temp (F) 72 - 78, pH 8.1 - 8.4, Hardness 8 - 12 dKH
- Care: Easy
- Behavior: Social
- Diet: Frozen Food Live Food
- Habitat: Reef
- Light: