Peppermint Shrimp (Lysmata wurdemanni)

Species Name : Lysmata wurdemanni

Care Level : Easy

Temperament : Peaceful

Color : Red

Diet : Carnivore

Reef Compatible : Yes

Water Conditions : 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.023-1.025

Max. Size : 2 inches

Origin : Caribbean

Family : Hippolytidae

Supplements : Calcium, Magnesium, Iodine, Trace Elements

Lysmata Wurdemanni, commonly known as the Peppermint Shrimp, is a species of shrimp. The Peppermint Shrimp is incredibly low maintenance and easy to care for. They are, therefore, highly advised for beginners. 

Also often known as candy cane shrimp or the veined shrimp, the peppermint shrimp generally coins its name from the kind of color they have.  This ornamental member of the Hippolytidae family is brightly colored with a clear or creamy white body striped with several thin and distinct longitudinal red bands. The typical peppermint shrimp size is between 1.5 to 2 inches when they grow into an adult. 

Also known as the Veined or Caribbean Cleaner Shrimp, the Peppermint Shrimp is sometimes confused with its Pacific cousin, Rhynchocinetes durbanensis. However, that shrimp has a pointed nose and inter-spaced white stripes over its body. 

The Peppermint Shrimp is best known for its natural ability to manage nuisance Aiptasia, or glass anemones. Keep in mind that some individual Peppermint Shrimp are better at managing aiptasia while others may not be interested in aiptasia at all. 

The Peppermint Shrimp does best in home aquariums with live rock, ample places to hide, as well as open areas to scavenge.

Peppermint Shrimp are very social and peaceful towards most reef inhabitants. They get along well with and are calm with other fish in aquariums. They are a reef-safe, peaceful, and great addition to your cleanup crew. It cannot be safely kept with predatory fishes such as triggerfish, lionfish and hawkfish.

Like other invertebrates, the Peppermint Shrimp cannot tolerate copper-based medications or high nitrate levels. It also requires supplemental iodine to encourage proper molting of its carapace. 

The Peppermint Shrimp has been successfully bred by commercial fish farms, and can be bred in the home aquarium. 

Peppermint shrimp do not require supplemental feeding when housed in a saltwater aquarium where Aiptasia and/or leftover fish food is present. As scavengers, these shrimps will wander the live rock in your reef aquarium searching for Aiptasia or wastes. However, if the animal completely eliminates all pest anemones and waste, it can be offered supplemental feedings of most prepared fish foods.

Size: 3/4" to 1-1/2"