Red-Spotted Pistol Shrimp
(Alpheus rubromaculatus)

Description

Red-Spotted Pistol Shrimp: Your Aquarium’s Silent Architect

Unearth the captivating world of the Red-Spotted Pistol Shrimp, a fascinating marine invertebrate known for its powerful snapping claw and intricate burrow-building. Add a unique dynamic to your reef system.

Overview

The Red-Spotted Pistol Shrimp (*Alpheus rubromaculatus*) is a captivating addition, showcasing a translucent white body adorned with distinctive red spots and markings, particularly on its carapace and appendages. Its most remarkable feature is an asymmetrical, oversized claw capable of producing a cavitation bubble that creates a loud “snapping” sound, used for stunning prey or deterring predators. These industrious crustaceans are renowned for their burrowing prowess, constantly sifting and sculpting the substrate to create elaborate homes, often shared in a symbiotic relationship with a Watchman Goby.

Care Level

Caring for the Red-Spotted Pistol Shrimp is considered easy to moderate. They are peaceful towards most fish but can be territorial with other shrimp or small invertebrates. This species thrives when paired with a compatible goby, forming a mutually beneficial partnership where the goby acts as a lookout while the shrimp maintains their shared burrow. Ensure a well-established tank for optimal health.

Tank Essentials

A minimum aquarium size of 50 litres is recommended to provide ample space for burrowing and exploration. Essential tank parameters include stable salinity (1.023-1.026), a pH range of 8.1-8.4, and a temperature of 24-28°C. A deep sand bed (at least 5 cm) combined with secure rockwork is crucial for their burrow construction and security, preventing potential rock collapses.

Diet

As opportunistic carnivores and scavengers, Red-Spotted Pistol Shrimp readily accept a variety of meaty foods. Offer high-quality frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and chopped seafood. They will also scavenge for detritus and uneaten food within the aquarium, contributing to your tank’s cleanup crew.

Why Buy From Us

When you buy Red-Spotted Pistol Shrimp online from Corais de Vidro, you receive healthy aquarium fish responsibly sourced and acclimated with the utmost care. Our rigorous quarantine protocols ensure robust specimens, ready to thrive in your marine environment. Experience our commitment to quality and responsible aquatics with every order.

• Scientific Name: Alpheus rubromaculatus
• Common Name / Variant: Red-Spotted Pistol Shrimp
• Maximum Size: 5 cm
• Origin: Indo-Pacific
• pH Range: 8.1–8.4
• Temperature: 24–28°C
• Lifespan: 2–5 years
• Swimming Zone: Bottom

Bring the incredible Red-Spotted Pistol Shrimp to your reef aquarium today!