Red Line Cleaner Shrimp

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The Red Line Cleaner Shrimp, also known as the Skunk Cleaner Shrimp, is one of the most popular and useful marine cleaner shrimp available to reef aquarists. Instantly recognisable by its bright red stripes, white body and long white antennae, this active shrimp adds plenty of movement and personality to the aquarium.

Cleaner Shrimp are best known for their natural cleaning behaviour, often establishing a cleaning station where fish visit to have parasites, mucus and debris removed from their bodies. They are peaceful and reef-safe, making them an excellent addition to most marine and reef aquariums.

Provide plenty of live rock, caves and crevices for shelter, along with stable water quality and a varied diet.

Quick Care Guide

• Scientific Name: Lysmata amboinensis
• Adult Size: Around 5–6 cm
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Minimum Aquarium: 60L+
• Temperature: 24–27°C
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Salinity: 1.023–1.026 SG
• Diet: Omnivore / Scavenger
• Difficulty: Easy–Moderate
• Aquascape: Live rock, caves and hiding places

FAQ

Are Red Line Cleaner Shrimp reef safe?

Yes. They are considered reef safe and generally leave corals alone.

Do Cleaner Shrimp actually clean fish?

Yes. They naturally establish cleaning stations and may remove parasites, dead tissue and debris from fish. However, they should not be relied upon as a treatment for serious fish disease or parasite outbreaks.

What do Red Line Cleaner Shrimp eat?

They will scavenge for leftover food but should also receive regular feeding. Marine pellets, flakes, frozen foods and small meaty foods are suitable.

Can I keep more than one?

Yes. They can often be kept singly or in compatible groups, provided the aquarium has enough space and shelter.

Common Mistakes

Adding them to an immature aquarium

Cleaner Shrimp are sensitive to unstable water parameters. Ensure the aquarium is fully established before introducing them.

Poor acclimation

Shrimp can be sensitive to sudden changes in salinity and water chemistry. A careful acclimation is recommended.

Keeping them with predators

Large predatory fish, some wrasses and other animals may see shrimp as food. Always consider tank-mate compatibility.

Copper medication

Copper-based medications can be highly dangerous or fatal to shrimp. Never expose Cleaner Shrimp to copper treatments.