Tiger Pistol Shrimp - Alpheus bellulus
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Details
This is a Restricted item and is not covered by our Arrive Alive 14-day Guarantee.Please see our Guarantee Policy and Restricted Species List for more information.
The Tiger Pistol Shrimp (Alpheus bellulus) is generally light overall with dark brown bands over its entire body and extending down the claws and legs. The legs may have more of a purplish or yellow color than the body.
Pistol shrimp get their name from the loud popping sound they can make by quickly opening or closing their specially adapted claws. This is used as a defense mechanism to frighten off would-be predators and, unlike the Mantis Shrimp they are sometimes confused with, they are harmless to most tankmates.
Pistol shrimp are scavengers and carnivores. They can be target-fed with small meaty foods occasionally but they will also feed on leftover food in the aquarium. They can be kept with most fish that will not prey on them but should not be kept with small shrimp or lobsters.
Watchman or Shrimpgobies often form symbiotic relationships with certain types of Pistol Shrimp. They will prepare a den and mutually occupy it, sharing food and maintenance duties, and the protection of the burrow. The interactions of this relationship is tremendously entertaining, and may be best enjoyed in a small species set-up.
Specifications
Specifications | |
MPN | F93 0045 0220 |
Manufacturer | That Fish Place |
Common Name | Tiger Pistol Shrimp |
Scientific Name | Alpheus bellulus |
pH Range | 8.0-8.4 |
Temperature Range | 75-82 |
Specific Gravity Range | 1.022-1.026 |
Origin | Indo-Pacific |
Diet | Carnivore, Scavenger |
Reef Safe | Yes |
Invert Safe | Yes, with caution |
Community Safe | Yes |
Max Size (in inches) | 3 |
Min Tank Size (in gallons) | 15 |
Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
Restricted | Yes |
Internal Id | 60256 |