Peppermint Shrimp (2 Pack)

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.

Peppermint Shrimp are opportunistic omnivores and scavengers. In a community reef they will pick at leftover fish food, but they should still be target-fed to prevent hunger-driven nuisance behaviors (such as stealing coral food). Feed small portions 3–5 times per week, adjusting based on tank nutrient levels and competition. Use a mix of meaty marine foods (mysis, finely chopped shrimp, clam, or fish), sinking pellets, and occasional algae-based foods. Turn pumps down briefly and place food near their hiding area after lights dim; they often feed more confidently at night. Ensure they get some food even in tanks with fast, aggressive feeders.

Leftover Fish Food Finely Chopped Seafood Aiptasia
Peppermint Shrimp are active, mostly nocturnal scavengers that spend much of their time moving through rockwork and crevices in search of leftover food and detritus. During the day they often remain hidden, becoming more visible after lights dim or during feeding. They are generally peaceful and non-aggressive toward tank mates, though they may compete with other shrimp if food is limited. In reef systems, they are valued for their constant picking behavior, which helps control nuisance algae and organic buildup. When kept in groups, they tend to coexist well and display more natural, confident behavior.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

About the Peppermint Shrimp

  • Will Peppermint Shrimp always eat Aiptasia anemones?
    Not always. While Peppermint Shrimp are known for eating Aiptasia, this behavior is inconsistent and depends on the individual shrimp and available food sources. Shrimp that are well fed may ignore Aiptasia entirely. If Aiptasia control is the goal, limiting supplemental feeding for a short period can encourage grazing, but success is never guaranteed.
  • My Peppermint Shrimp disappeared during the day. Did it die?
    Not necessarily. Peppermint Shrimp are mostly nocturnal and often hide deep within rockwork during daylight hours. It is common for them to remain unseen for long periods, especially in tanks with complex aquascapes. They usually reappear after lights dim or during feeding.
  • Can Peppermint Shrimp be kept in groups?
    Yes. Peppermint Shrimp generally coexist well in small groups and often display more confident behavior when kept together. In larger groups, ensuring adequate food and hiding spaces helps prevent competition or stress.
  • Are Peppermint Shrimp reef safe with corals?
    They are generally reef safe, but hungry individuals may occasionally pick at fleshy corals or coral polyps. This behavior is rare and typically linked to insufficient feeding. Providing regular, appropriate food greatly reduces the risk.
  • What fish should not be kept with Peppermint Shrimp?
    Avoid housing them with predatory fish such as hawkfish, large wrasses, groupers, or dottybacks that may view shrimp as prey. Peaceful community fish allow Peppermint Shrimp to display natural scavenging behavior without stress.

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Related Reading

From the Top Shelf blog, tagged for Peppermint Shrimp.