Banded Coral Shrimp

The Banded Coral Shrimp (Stenopus hispidus), also known as the Boxing Shrimp, is one of the most visually dramatic invertebrates available for the marine aquarium – its body banded in deep red and white, with long, flowing white antennae that can span twice its body length. It is a territorial animal that should be kept singly or as a mated pair; two unrelated individuals of the same sex will fight to the death. While it will occasionally perform cleaning behavior on fish, it is primarily a scavenger and small-prey hunter rather than a true obligate cleaner. Not compatible with other ornamental shrimp in most reef settings. Feed a varied diet of small meaty frozen foods. Provide adequate hiding space and rockwork shelter; it is shy when first introduced and will become bolder as it establishes its territory.