Peppermint Shrimp – Lysmata wurdemanni

The Peppermint Shrimp is a small, active marine shrimp recognized for its translucent body and distinctive red striping.

Popular in reef aquariums, it is generally peaceful, reef-compatible, and valued as part of a diverse clean-up crew. True Peppermint Shrimp may also consume small Aiptasia anemones, although individual feeding behavior can vary.

Key Features

• Scientific name: Lysmata wurdemanni

• Common name: Peppermint Shrimp

• Temperament: Peaceful

• Reef safe: Generally yes

• Care level: Easy to moderate

• Adult size: Approximately 2 inches

• Minimum aquarium size: 10 gallons

• Diet: Omnivore / scavenger

• Water temperature: 75–80°F

• Salinity: 1.023–1.026 specific gravity

• Recommended pH: 8.1–8.4

Aquarium Care

Peppermint Shrimp prefer established marine aquariums with stable water parameters and plenty of rockwork where they can shelter during the day and after molting.

Like most marine invertebrates, they are sensitive to rapid changes in salinity and water chemistry. Careful acclimation is recommended when introducing them to the aquarium.

Copper-based medications should never be used in an aquarium containing shrimp or other marine invertebrates.

Feeding

Peppermint Shrimp are opportunistic omnivores and scavengers.

They may consume:

• Leftover fish food

• Frozen mysis shrimp

• Brine shrimp

• Small pieces of marine foods

• Detritus and organic material

• Some small Aiptasia anemones

Do not rely on Peppermint Shrimp as the sole method of Aiptasia control, as feeding behavior varies between individuals.

Reef Compatibility

Peppermint Shrimp are generally considered reef-safe and can be kept with most peaceful reef fish and corals.

Adequate feeding is recommended, particularly in very clean aquariums where little leftover food is available.

Avoid housing them with predatory fish that naturally consume crustaceans.

Francois Neo AquaStudio Selection

Our livestock is selected with attention to health, activity, body condition and overall aquarium suitability.

Availability may vary depending on current livestock inventory.

Individual size, coloration and markings may vary.