Skunk Cleaner Shrimp

The Skunk Cleaner Shrimp (Lysmata amboinensis) is an Indo-Pacific shrimp known for establishing cleaning stations that fish visit. Its long antennae and contrasting stripe make it easy to recognise as it moves around the rockwork.

Cleaning behaviour is only part of its diet. Provide suitable small aquarium foods so it receives regular nutrition, even in a tank where few fish visit its station. A reef layout with sheltered places lets it withdraw when it is not actively feeding.

Review your fish list before adding a cleaner shrimp. Large predatory wrasses and triggerfish can make unsuitable companions despite the shrimp’s cleaning role. If you want to keep several shrimp, share the aquarium size and existing invertebrates with our team so the combination can be assessed.