Stenopus zanzibaricus

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Facts
Latin name Stenopus zanzibaricus
Local name Gold-banded coral shrimp
Family Alpheoidea - Stenopus
Origin East Indian Ocean, The Mexican Golf
Max length 5 cm (2")
As aquarium fish
Minimum volume 50 l (13 gal)
Hardiness Hardy
Suitable for aquarium Suitable for most aquarium
Reef safe Reef safe with caution
Aggressiveness Mostly peaceful but might be aggressive towards similar species
Feed
Recommended Small crustaceans (Krill, mysis, artemia...)
Mostly Detritus
Parasites
Beware of
Can be a threat towards small crustaceans

This species can be a threat towards small crustaceans, e.g. small shrimp.

Keep in mind
Can coexist as a pair

They can live as a pair provided they are introduced simultaneously.

Can irritate corals

These shrimps will sometimes irritate corals by taking food out of their mouths, but this is not generally a problem.

Removes parasitic life

This species is able to remove parasites from fish.
It does not have a great impact on a large outbreak of marine ich (Cryptocaryon), for example, but it contributes towards keeping fish parasite free.

Constant cleaning can stress the fish in the aquarium, so one should not add this fish which removes parasites, if the fish are already weakened through other causes.

Not all specimens actively clean fish.

Descriptions and further reading
Description

Stenopus scutellatus live in the Carribean and Stenopus zanzibaricus in the Indian Ocean.  

Family description (Alpheoidea)

Shrimps have many different purposes in the tank, some are just pretty while others are shy but useful. Some remove parasites whilst others help fight different pests. 

Read more about the different genera and species for more specific information.

References and further reading

About references

Ronald L. Shimek. 2004. Marine Invertebrates (PocketExpert Guide) - TFH Publications / Microcosm Ltd. - (English)
Bob Fenner. Cleaner Shrimps of the Family Hippolytidae - Wet Web Media - (English)
James W. Fatherree. A Few Common Shrimps for the Marine Aquarium - Wet Web Media - (English)