Peppermint Shrimp, Lysmata sp. - Wild Caught

Peppermint Shrimp, Lysmata boggessi & wurdemanni are well know for eating aiptasia. Our shrimp are collected from the Florida Keys.

Maintaining a thriving aquarium often comes with its fair share of challenges, and one common nuisance that aquarium enthusiasts encounter is the proliferation of Aiptasia, a pesky and invasive anemone species. Fortunately, nature has provided a solution in the form of Lysmata boggessi and Lysmata wurdemanni, commonly known as peppermint shrimp. These small, colorful crustaceans are renowned for their remarkable appetite for Aiptasia, making them valuable allies in the battle against unwanted aquarium pests.

The Aiptasia Challenge:

Aiptasia, often referred to as "glass anemones" or "rock anemones," can quickly overrun aquariums, posing a threat to coral health and overall aesthetic appeal. Their rapid reproduction and resilient nature make them a formidable adversary for aquarium hobbyists.

Enter Lysmata boggessi and Lysmata wurdemanni:

Peppermint shrimp, particularly Lysmata boggessi and Lysmata wurdemanni, have gained popularity among aquarium enthusiasts for their voracious appetite for Aiptasia. These shrimp are not only effective at controlling the Aiptasia population but also add a touch of character to your aquarium.

1. Identifying Lysmata boggessi and Lysmata wurdemanni:

• Lysmata boggessi, also known as the Caribbean peppermint shrimp, typically features a vibrant red or reddish-brown body with white stripes.
• Lysmata wurdemanni, commonly known as the Peppermint shrimp, showcases a reddish-brown coloration with distinct white stripes or spots.

2. Aiptasia appetite:

These shrimp have a natural inclination to feed on Aiptasia, making them a valuable addition to your aquarium's cleanup crew. They use their specialized mouthparts to tear apart the Aiptasia tentacles, ultimately eradicating the pest anemones.

Caring for Lysmata boggessi and Lysmata wurdemanni:

To ensure the well-being of these beneficial shrimp, it is crucial to provide them with an environment conducive to their needs:

1. Tank size and habitat:

• A minimum tank size of 10 gallons is recommended for a small group of peppermint shrimp.
• Provide hiding places such as caves or live rock to give them a sense of security.

2. Water parameters:

• Maintain stable water conditions with a temperature ranging from 72°F to 78°F (22°C to 26°C).
• Keep the pH levels between 8.1 and 8.4 and maintain specific gravity between 1.023 and 1.025.

3. Diet:

• While peppermint shrimp primarily feed on Aiptasia, supplement their diet with small meaty foods like brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and high-quality marine pellets.

4. Compatibility:

• Ensure compatibility with other tank inhabitants, as these shrimp are generally peaceful and do well in community aquariums.

5. Acclimation:

• Properly acclimate peppermint shrimp to your tank conditions to reduce stress and enhance their overall health.