Tiger Pistol Shrimp

Pistol shrimps offer a look into the symbiotic relationship that exists between reef inhabitants in the wild. The tiger pistol shrimp (Alpheus bellulus) is one of the most common pistol species in the hobby, and also one of the largest. These beautiful white pistol shrimp can be identified by the orange-brown stripes running down the entirety of their otherwise white carapace and claws. Pistol shrimps are most well-known for their asymmetric claws, with the larger claw being capable of releasing high speed air bubbles, creating a close-ranged shockwave used to stun and kill prey as well as warn would-be predators and intruders; The shockwave created by these air bubbles is so loud it can and will likely be heard outside of the tank!

Despite their seemingly dangerous demeanor, Tiger pistol shrimp are capable of forming symbiotic relationships with a variety of commonly kept goby species, including Randall’s gobies, Yellow Watchman gobies, Yasha Hase gobies, and Spotted Prawn gobies to name a few. In this relationship, the shrimp (being blind) tends to the burrow while the goby acts as a lookout and brings food back to the den to share with its companion. When a pair is formed, the goby and pistol shrimp may scout out a variety of locations before building a new burrow. It is not uncommon to see your pistol shrimp or goby removing sand from their burrow as they expand their home, and caution should be taken to remove any corals that may be near the burrow to prevent them from becoming buried. Other than this, pistol shrimps are generally reef safe, but may become aggressive towards fishes that invade their territory.