Cleaner Shrimp — Lysmata amboinensis

Lysmata amboinensis, the Pacific Cleaner Shrimp, is one of the most useful and beautiful marine invertebrates. It sets up a 'cleaning station' and invites fish to approach for parasite removal — including potentially harmful ectoparasites. Simultaneously ornamental and functional, it is a staple of the reef aquarium.

Reef-safe. Requires stable, well-oxygenated marine water (SG 1.023–1.026). Provide rockwork crevices for moulting shelter — newly moulted shrimp are highly vulnerable. Feed occasional meaty foods (mysis, chopped shrimp). Iodine supplementation beneficial. Do NOT house with aggressive fish or large predatory shrimp.