Helicopter shrimp

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The Helicopter Shrimp, commonly known as the Banded Coral Shrimp, is a striking marine invertebrate recognised by its bold red-and-white banding, long antennae and distinctive oversized claws. Its dramatic appearance makes it a popular choice for marine aquariums.

Despite its impressive appearance, the Helicopter Shrimp can be territorial and predatory toward other small shrimp and ornamental crustaceans. It is best kept as a single specimen or compatible bonded pair, with plenty of rockwork, caves and overhangs to provide shelter.

It is primarily a scavenger and opportunistic feeder, readily accepting a variety of meaty marine foods.

Quick Care Guide

• Scientific Name: Stenopus hispidus
• Common Name: Banded Coral Shrimp
• Adult Size: Around 5–7 cm
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive / Territorial
• Reef Safe: Generally yes, with caution
• Minimum Aquarium: 75L+
• Temperature: 23–27°C
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Salinity: 1.023–1.026 SG
• Diet: Carnivore / Scavenger
• Difficulty: Easy–Moderate
• Aquascape: Live rock, caves and overhangs

FAQ

Are Helicopter Shrimp reef safe?

They are generally considered reef compatible, but they may prey on or harass smaller ornamental shrimp and other crustaceans.

Can I keep two Helicopter Shrimp together?

A compatible male and female pair can sometimes be kept together. Introducing unrelated adults can result in aggression, so caution is recommended.

What do Helicopter Shrimp eat?

They readily accept frozen marine foods, prawns, mysis, chopped seafood and sinking marine pellets.

Are Helicopter Shrimp aggressive?

They can be territorial, particularly toward other shrimp. Providing plenty of rockwork and establishing a suitable territory can help reduce conflict.

Common Mistakes

Keeping them with other ornamental shrimp

Avoid mixing them with smaller shrimp species unless compatibility has been carefully considered.

Not providing hiding places

They naturally spend time around caves, ledges and rockwork. A suitable aquascape helps them feel secure.

Adding multiple unrelated adults

Helicopter Shrimp can be territorial and may fight when space is limited.

Assuming they are cleaner shrimp

Although they are sometimes associated with cleaning behaviour, they should not be relied upon as a dedicated cleaner species.