Stenopus hispidus

Sexing

 * Males are smaller and more slender than females.

Tank compatibility

 * Will nibble on corals and not safe with other invertebrates such as small hermit crabs and other shrimp. Do not keep with aggressive fish that may eat shrimp.

Diet

 * A scavenger by nature, prefers meaty foods. Will remove dead tissue, algae and parasites from larger fish. Will even pick at hands that are trying to clean the tank!

Feeding regime

 * As this shrimp is a scavenger, it will need to have various foods on offer at all times or else it may starve. It is also nocturnal and will only really feed at night.

Environment Specifics

 * Nocturnal, so needs a cave to hide in during the day.

Behaviour

 * This is a cleaner shrimp so will approach large fish to pick off dead tissue and parasites.

Identification

 * A slender shrimp with very long legs, pincers and antennae. The shrimp is banded down its body and legs with white and red/brown, which makes it a striking addition to any saltwater tank.