Peppermint Shrimp

The Peppermint Shrimp is a popular reef aquarium invertebrate known for its red-and-white striped appearance, active scavenging behavior, and reputation for helping control Aiptasia pest anemones. Small, hardy, and useful, Peppermint Shrimp make an excellent addition to many saltwater aquarium clean-up crews.

During the day, Peppermint Shrimp may spend time hiding within caves and rockwork. As they become comfortable—or when food enters the aquarium—they often emerge to explore the reef and scavenge for leftover food and organic material.

Peppermint Shrimp Care

Scientific Name: Lysmata wurdemanni species complex
Common Name: Peppermint Shrimp
Type: Marine Shrimp / Clean-Up Crew
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Generally Peaceful
Reef Safe: Generally Yes
Diet: Omnivore / Scavenger
Adult Size: Approximately 2"
Aquarium Area: Rockwork & Caves
Water Temperature: 74–80°F
Salinity: 1.023–1.026 SG
Recommended pH: 8.1–8.4

Do Peppermint Shrimp Eat Aiptasia?

Peppermint Shrimp are commonly added to reef aquariums as a natural method of controlling Aiptasia, a fast-spreading pest anemone that can sting corals and become difficult to manage.

Many genuine Peppermint Shrimp will consume smaller Aiptasia, although results can vary between individual shrimp. They should not be considered a guaranteed solution for every Aiptasia infestation.

Correct identification is also important, as several similar-looking shrimp are sometimes sold under the Peppermint Shrimp name.

Feeding & Aquarium Care

Peppermint Shrimp are opportunistic omnivores and scavengers. In addition to naturally occurring food within the aquarium, they may consume leftover fish food, detritus, frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, pellets, and other appropriately sized marine foods.

A well-fed Peppermint Shrimp will spend much of its time searching through rockwork and crevices for available food.

Like other marine shrimp, Peppermint Shrimp are sensitive to rapid changes in salinity and water chemistry. Careful acclimation and stable reef parameters are important when introducing them to a new aquarium.

Copper-based medications should not be used in an aquarium containing Peppermint Shrimp or other sensitive marine invertebrates.

Why Add Peppermint Shrimp to Your Reef?

Peppermint Shrimp provide more than just an interesting appearance. Their combination of scavenging behavior and potential Aiptasia control makes them one of the most useful shrimp commonly kept in reef aquariums.

They can be combined with snails, hermit crabs, conchs, and other beneficial invertebrates to create a diverse saltwater aquarium clean-up crew.

Peppermint Shrimp are also included in our Island Reef Aquatics Small and Large Invert Packs for reef keepers looking for a complete clean-up crew solution.

Available from Island Reef Aquatics with local pickup in Deltona, Florida and shipping available.