LYSMATA AMBOINENSIS (Cleaner shrimp)

The Lysmata amboinensis , or Cleaner Shrimp, is one of the most useful invertebrates in marine aquariums. Its bright red body with a white dorsal stripe and long white antennae make it instantly recognizable. Native to the Indo-Pacific, it naturally establishes "cleaning stations" where fish come to be dewormed.

His role in the baccalaureate

Actively removes ectoparasites, necrotic tissue, and debris directly from the skin and gills of fish. Valuable against ich ( Cryptocaryon irritans ) and velvet ( Amyloodinium ). Also helps clean leftover food from the bottom of the tank.

Recommended conditions

• Temperature: 24–27°C — Salinity: 1.023–1.026
• pH: 7.8–8.4 (normal natural day/night fluctuation in a reef tank)
• Alkalinity: 8–10 dKH — Calcium: 380–450 ppm — Minimum volume: 100L

Behavior

It settles in a rocky cavity as a cleaning station. It molts every 3–8 weeks—do not remove the exoskeleton, it is naturally reabsorbed. Simultaneous hermaphrodite—regularly reproduces in pairs.

Compatibility

Compatible with most reef fish. Avoid with large wrasses (Coris), lionfish and some triggerfish.