Overview:
Sexy Anemone Shrimp (Thor amboinensis) are tiny, reef-safe shrimp best kept in stable, mature nano to reef aquariums where water quality swings are minimal. They naturally live among anemones and some corals, using their host for shelter and spending much of the day “dancing” their curled abdomen. Provide ample rockwork, gentle to moderate flow, and plenty of hiding spots. Ideal parameters are typical reef conditions: 24–26.5°C (75–80°F), salinity 1.024–1.026, pH 8.1–8.4, and very low ammonia/nitrite with controlled nitrate. Because they are small and sensitive, avoid sudden salinity or temperature changes and acclimate slowly (drip acclimation is recommended). They do well singly, but groups (3–6+) often behave more naturally if the tank has enough food and cover.
Compatibility:
Generally peaceful and safe with most corals. They may irritate some LPS or polyps by constant picking if underfed, so consistent feeding reduces nuisance behavior. Best kept with small, calm fish (gobies, firefish, small wrasses with caution) and non-predatory inverts. Avoid tankmates that view shrimp as food: hawkfish, lionfish, larger dottybacks, many triggers, puffers, and large wrasses. Also avoid large predatory crabs, mantis shrimp, and aggressive hermits. They can live with hosting anemones (commonly rock flower anemones and some others), but strong-stinging species can still harm them in cramped spaces; ensure the anemone is healthy and the tank is appropriate for it.
Health and Quarantine:
Most losses trace to poor acclimation, unstable water, copper exposure, or predation. Never use copper medications in systems with them. During molts they are vulnerable; provide iodine through regular water changes (avoid overdosing supplements) and keep alkalinity and salinity steady. Quarantine is possible in a small, cycled tank with PVC shelters; observe for failed molts, lethargy, and injury. Use shrimp-safe treatments only, maintain pristine water, and minimize handling. Frequent small water changes and careful top-off (to prevent salinity swings) are the best preventive care.