There are many different types of Saltwater Shrimp available for the salt water reef aquarium. One of the most common Cleaner Shrimp in the saltwater aquarium trade are the Banded Coral Shrimp also known as a Boxer Shrimp.  These Shrimp are typically obtained for Ornamental, worm control and cleaner properties, Banded Coral shrimp are very good scavengers that make a good addition to any reef tank if you don’t mind a semi-aggressive shrimp.

Banded Coral Shrimp are native to the Caribbean and their scientific name is Stenopus hispidus.  They thrive in an environment with temperatures in the 72-80F range and a salinity factor of the average reef aquarium from 1.023-1.025.  They can get as big as 3 inches with their antennae growing up to 6inches and are Carnivores.  They scavenge the reefs live rock for food matter especially meaty foods such as decaying fish. Banded Coral Shrimp are mainly nocturnal and will do most of their scavenging at night however they can be active during the day especially if food is offered to them or your tank. The Banded Coral Shrimp are notorious worm killers, I initially purchased my shrimp to control my huge population of bristle worms.  This shrimp will however kill other worms including feather dusters ( I have lost 4 feather dusters in the last 4 yours to this shrimp).

A Banded Coral Shrimp sits on a Montipora Coral

I have witnessed my Banded Coral Shrimp can show aggressive behavior to smaller tank mates (gobies, blennies) when not properly fed or if the tank is so clean that they cannot scavenge anything.  They often wave their Antennae to sense when food is in the water.  If not enough food can be scavenged in your reef aquarium then it is suggested to supplement your banded Coral Shrimp with meaty foods ,bits of silversides, krill or mysis shrimp are among favorites of my Shrimp.

As with all salt water invertebrates; the use of copper medication in your reef tank is strictly forbidden, please keep tabs on all pH changes and avoid at all costs handling your boxer shrimp, those huge claws can leave a rather nasty pinch.  A good amount of live rock is a must for this species of shrimp as they use it for shelter, food and safety.  Drip Acclimation is required when first purchased.

The Video above is one of my Banded Coral Shrimp just hanging out on the rock work in my reef aquarium.