The Peppermint Shrimp (Lysmata wurdemanni) is a small, hardy, and highly beneficial marine invertebrate known for its natural ability to control Aiptasia anemones (pest anemones) in reef aquariums. Native to the Western Atlantic, Caribbean, and Gulf of Mexico, this shrimp is a popular choice for reef tanks due to its peaceful nature, attractive translucent red body with delicate striping, and excellent scavenging abilities.
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A Name That Reflects Its Appearance
The "Peppermint" name comes from its light pink to reddish body with thin, wavy red stripes, resembling the classic peppermint candy. Their semi-transparent exoskeleton helps them blend into their surroundings, offering a subtle yet beautiful presence in the aquarium.
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Growth and Tank Requirements
Peppermint Shrimp stay relatively small, growing up to 2 inches in length, making them ideal for nano and large reef tanks alike. They require a minimum tank size of 10 gallons, though larger tanks allow for more natural behavior and multiple shrimp. Their ideal habitat includes:
Plenty of live rock with crevices for hiding
Low to moderate water flow
A well-established reef tank with stable water conditions
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Care and Water Parameters
These shrimp are very hardy and can adapt to a range of conditions, but they thrive in:
Temperature: 72-78°F
pH Range: 8.1-8.4
Salinity: 1.023-1.025
Water Hardness: 8-12 dKH
They are reef-safe and compatible with most peaceful fish, corals, and invertebrates, but should not be housed with aggressive predators like lionfish, large wrasses, or triggers that may see them as food.
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Diet and Feeding
Peppermint Shrimp are omnivorous scavengers, primarily feeding on detritus, uneaten food, and small pests like Aiptasia anemones. Their diet can be supplemented with:
High-quality sinking pellets or flakes
Frozen foods such as mysis and brine shrimp
Dried seaweed or marine-based algae supplements
A balanced diet ensures a long, healthy lifespan and helps prevent them from nipping at soft corals if underfed.
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Unique Behaviors
Peppermint Shrimp are nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night, but will occasionally come out during the day. They are known for their cleaning behavior, sometimes picking parasites or dead skin from tank mates. In groups, they display social interactions, often gathering in small crevices together.
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Important Considerations
Aiptasia Control: While many Peppermint Shrimp eat pest anemones, some individuals may not, depending on their natural diet and environment.
Reef-Safe with Caution: If not well-fed, they may nip at soft corals or polyps.
Compatibility: Best kept with peaceful tank mates to avoid being preyed upon.
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Please note that these are general guidelines, and for more accurate values, we encourage you to contact Living Aquarium by phone or in person. Within store hours, our team of experts are always happy to answer any questions you may have and provide personalized guidance on care.