Overview:
Peppermint Shrimp (commonly sold as Lysmata wurdemanni complex) are small, nocturnal reef shrimp that do best in mature, stable marine aquariums with abundant live rock and crevices for hiding. Provide plenty of shaded shelters, moderate water flow, and stable reef-range parameters: 24–27°C (75–81°F), salinity 1.024–1.026, pH 8.1–8.4, ammonia/nitrite 0, and consistently low nitrate. They are sensitive to rapid changes, so use slow drip acclimation and avoid sudden salinity or temperature swings. While often purchased for Aiptasia control, not every individual will eat pest anemones, and good husbandry should not rely on that behavior.

Compatibility:
Generally peaceful with fish and most invertebrates, Peppermint Shrimp are best kept singly, in pairs, or in small groups when the aquarium has enough hiding spots to reduce squabbles. They usually coexist with other peaceful shrimp, but may be stressed or bullied by larger, territorial species such as Coral Banded Shrimp. Avoid housing them with predators that view shrimp as food, including hawkfish, lionfish, many triggers, puffers, large dottybacks, and some large wrasses. With corals, they are typically reef-safe, but hungry individuals may pick at fleshy polyps or repeatedly steal food from LPS and anemones; regular feeding and placing corals on feeding schedules helps.

Health and Quarantine:
Most losses trace back to poor acclimation, unstable water quality, or molting problems. Provide a calcium/alkalinity-stable system and consistent salinity to support clean molts; sudden parameter shifts commonly cause failed molts and death. Do not use copper-based medications in any system containing shrimp. A simple quarantine of 2–4 weeks in a cycled, fishless tank with PVC shelters helps confirm they are eating and molting normally and prevents accidental introduction of pests. If treatment is needed, use shrimp-safe approaches and prioritize water quality and observation over harsh medications.