Cleaner Shrimp

The Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp (Lysmata amboinensis) is among the most behaviorally fascinating invertebrates in the hobby. It establishes a cleaning station on prominent rockwork and actively solicits fish – even large, aggressive species – which respond by presenting their gills, mouths, and skin for inspection. The shrimp removes parasites, dead tissue, and debris in a genuine mutualistic exchange observed repeatedly across wild reef systems. Beyond this remarkable behavior, Cleaner Shrimp are strikingly beautiful: vivid red with a bold white dorsal stripe and long white antennae. They are reef safe, peaceful, and highly compatible with most community reef inhabitants. Cleaner Shrimp are simultaneous hermaphrodites and will breed in pairs or groups, producing planktonic larvae periodically. An excellent addition to any reef display at any experience level.