Blue Banded Coral Shrimp
Blue Banded Coral Shrimp, scientifically known as Stenopus tenuirostris, features a striking translucent and blue body with long white antennae and two muscular pinchers. It is also commonly referred to as the Boxing Shrimp due to its tendency to use its large claws to strike prey.
Generally peaceful with other fish species, these shrimp should not be kept in groups unless paired as a mated pair. They are sensitive to water quality and require stable, clean conditions to thrive. A well-maintained tank with ample live rock provides ideal hiding spots and supports their carnivorous feeding habits.
During growth, Blue Banded Coral Shrimp naturally shed their exoskeleton in a process called molting. This is a normal part of their development and should not be a cause for concern.
| Key Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Stenopus tenuirostris |
| Body Color | Translucent with blue tint |
| Antennae | Long and white |
| Claws | Large, muscular pinchers |
| Behavior | Peaceful; avoids same species unless mated pair |
| Water Sensitivity | High; requires pristine water quality |
| Feeding | Carnivorous; prefers live or frozen foods |
| Molting | Normal growth process; occurs periodically |
FAQ
Can Blue Banded Coral Shrimp be kept with other shrimp species?
It is not recommended to house Blue Banded Coral Shrimp with other shrimp species. They are sensitive to stress and may become aggressive or fight when kept in mixed groups.
What kind of tank setup is best for Blue Banded Coral Shrimp?
A tank with plenty of live rock for hiding and exploration is ideal. The environment should maintain stable water parameters and provide ample space for natural behavior.
How often do Blue Banded Coral Shrimp molt?
Molting occurs periodically as part of their natural growth cycle. The frequency can vary depending on age, health, and water conditions, but it is a normal and expected process.
Diane Watson –
The Blue Banded Coral Shrimp is a beautiful addition to my reef tank. It’s active and curious, and the blue body stands out well among the other inhabitants. I’ve maintained excellent water quality and it’s thriving. The shrimp seems to enjoy the live rock and will hide when startled. No issues with aggression so far.
Felicity Roberts –
I’ve had this shrimp for about two months now. It’s very peaceful and doesn’t bother other fish. I noticed it molting once, which was normal. I keep the water tested regularly and it seems to be adjusting well to the tank conditions.
Emma Grant –
The shrimp looks stunning with its translucent blue body and long white antennae. It’s active during the day and seems to be hunting for small crustaceans. I’ve kept it with a few other peaceful species and it hasn’t shown any signs of aggression.