Invertebrates
beginnerCleaner shrimp (Scarlet)
Lysmata amboinensis
Quick reference
Min tank size
20 US gal
20 gal — they get to 2.5 inches and pair if you have 2.
Temperature
75–82 °F
Salinity
1.024–1.026 SG
pH
8.1–8.4
Feeding
Scavenger. Will catch flake and frozen food. Hand-feeding works after acclimation.
Compatibility
Reef-safe. Generally avoided by predator fish but a lionfish or large hawkfish may try.
What kills it
Copper exposure (fatal even at trace levels — never copper-treat a reef). Failed molts in low magnesium. Sudden salinity change during drip acclimation.
Common mistakes
- •Treating a tank with copper while shrimp present — instant death.
- •Quick acclimation — they need 60+ minute drip from new water to tank.
Equipment & food for this species
Calibrate your refractometer before adding shrimp — salinity shock from drift kills more cleaner shrimp than anything else.
PE Mysis Shrimp — frozen
Whole-shrimp frozen food. Premium reef-tank standard.
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Refractometer for saltwater + calibration fluid
Calibrate with 35 ppt fluid monthly. Replaces hydrometers.
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Pinpoint 35 ppt calibration fluid
Monthly refractometer calibration. Skip and your salinity drifts.
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