Red Line Cleaner Shrimp

Redline Cleaner Shrimp (Lysmata amboinensis) Common Names: Redline Cleaner Shrimp, Scarlet Cleaner Shrimp, Skunk Cleaner Shrimp, Indo-Pacific White-Banded Cleaner Shrimp, Indo-Pacific White-Striped Cleaner Shrimp Max Size: 4 inches (10 cm) Family: Hippolytidae Minimum Tank Size: 75 litres Reef Compatible: Yes Care Level: Easy Temperament: Peaceful Diet: Carnivore Water Conditions: sg 1.023-1.025, 72-78°F (22-26°C), dKH 6-12, pH 7.8-8.4 Supplements: Calcium, Magnesium, Iodine, Trace Elements Overview The Redline Cleaner Shrimp is a popular and valuable addition to any saltwater aquarium, often playing the role of the "cleaner" for the fish in the tank. Known for its striking red and white colouration, this shrimp is essential for its ability to remove parasites and dead tissue from fish, sometimes even venturing into their mouths to clean safely. Many fish seek out these shrimp to take advantage of their cleaning services. With its characteristic white stripe down the centre of its back, flanked by two bright red lines, the Redline Cleaner Shrimp is both a beautiful and functional member of the aquarium ecosystem. Habitat & Behaviour In the wild, Redline Cleaner Shrimp are typically found in groups among live rock or coral formations, where they establish cleaning stations that fish visit to receive their services. In an aquarium, they need similar setups with plenty of rocks and crevices to hide and work from. These shrimp are peaceful and compatible with most fish and other invertebrates. However, care should be taken to avoid introducing them to tanks with predatory species like Hawkfish or Lionfish, which may view them as food. Care Requirements The Redline Cleaner Shrimp is hardy but sensitive to copper-based medications and sudden changes in water parameters, particularly high nitrates. A stable environment with proper acclimation is essential for their long-term health. The drip acclimation method is recommended to ensure they adapt to the tank’s water chemistry. Iodine supplementation is also important to support the shrimp’s molting process, which occurs regularly as they grow. Diet While the Redline Cleaner Shrimp naturally cleans fish of parasites and debris, it also needs regular feeding. A diet of meaty foods, including frozen, freeze-dried, and flake foods, will keep them healthy. Feeding small amounts multiple times a week will supplement their natural scavenging behaviour. Summary The Redline Cleaner Shrimp is both visually striking and highly beneficial in saltwater aquariums, playing an important role in maintaining fish health while adding vibrant colour to the tank. With proper care and a peaceful environment, this shrimp is an excellent choice for reef tanks and community setups alike.