Lysmata debelius

Sexing

 * These shrimp are hermaphroditic. L. debelius is a hermaphrodite and therefore any two individuals may mate. The hatching of eggs, moulting, and copulation cycle is identical to that of Lysmata wurdemanni, yielding weekly batches of zoeae from each pair.

Tank compatibility

 * They are best kept in pairs. More can result in territory problems. Less can lead to the shrimp being shy. Do not keep with aggressive fish or invertebrates that may harm it.

Diet

 * These are cleaner shrimp and will remove dead tissue and parasites from fish. They are known for their effective cleaning of debris or detritus in the water of aquariums. L. debelius has also been known to eat dead tissue or parasites from fish. L. debelius is hardy and requires little upkeep or attention.

Feeding regime

 * They will clean passing fish.

Environment Specifics

 * Needs hiding places. It will not tolerate copper or high levels of nitrates in the aquarium, but will require correct levels of iodine in the water to promote proper moulting.

Behaviour

 * A peaceful shrimp, will set up a 'cleaning station' where passing fish will pause to have parasites and dead tissue removed.

Identification

 * Long antennae and a vivid bright red body. The body has several white spots towards the head area and the legs and antennae are tipped with white.