Banded Coral Shrimp

Stenopus hispidus

Habitat & Distribution :  Indo-Pacific and Western Atlantic

Size : Marine worms, crustaceans, other invertebrates, zooplankton

Size : Up to 6,2 cm

Lifespan : 2 - 3 years

Description

The banded coral shrimp (Stenopus hispidus) is a striking cleaner shrimp with a distinct, prickly, red-and-white banded body and long white antennae.

Behavior

Banded coral shrimp (Stenopus hispidus) are territorial, nocturnal cleaner shrimp that typically form monogamous pairs. They are known for cleaning parasites from fish using their long white antennae, yet can be aggressive towards other shrimp and crustaceans.

Reproduction

Banded coral shrimp (Stenopus hispidus) are monogamous, mating for life in pairs that often stay together for their 2–3 year lifespan. Females carry fertilized, greenish eggs under their abdomen for about 16 days before they hatch, with larvae remaining attached for up to six weeks before becoming planktonic.

Communication Perception

Banded coral shrimp (Stenopus hispidus) communicate primarily through visual signals and tactile contact, using their antennae, specialized dances, and color displays to interact with fish and other shrimp. They perceive their environment using highly developed senses of touch and chemical detection, which helps them identify potential mates and cleaner clients.

Predators

groupers, snappers, moray eels, and triggerfish