Bumble Bee Shrimp (Striped Harlequin Shrimp)
The Bumble Bee Shrimp, also known as the Striped Harlequin Shrimp, is common throughout the Indo-Pacific. They are small shrimp only attaining a maximum size of 1 inch. Their body is yellow or white in coloration with black stripes giving them a similar appearance to a bumblebee. The legs and tail may also have orange markings. These shrimp are similar to Harlequin shrimp and feed upon the tube feet of echinoderms.
The Bumble Bee Shrimp is best kept as pairs in a small nano aquarium with moderate light to accommodate easy viewing. They cannot tolerate copper or high nitrates, and iodine levels must be correct and maintained to ensure proper molting.
The Bumble Bee Shrimp will feed upon the tube feet of echinoderms, but do not require them for survival. Offer a variety of live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and mysis shrimp to ensure balanced nutrition.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Size | Up to 1 inch |
| Color | Yellow or white with black stripes; orange on legs and tail |
| Origin | Indo-Pacific |
| Feeding | Tube feet of echinoderms, brine shrimp, bloodworms, mysis shrimp |
| Water Conditions | Modest light, low copper, low nitrates, proper iodine levels |
FAQ
What do Bumble Bee Shrimp eat?
Bumble Bee Shrimp feed on the tube feet of echinoderms, but they can also be fed brine shrimp, bloodworms, and mysis shrimp for balanced nutrition.
What are the ideal water conditions for Bumble Bee Shrimp?
They require moderate light, low copper levels, low nitrates, and proper iodine levels to support healthy molting and growth.
Can Bumble Bee Shrimp live alone?
It is recommended to keep them in pairs as they are more active and less stressed in social groups.
Pippa Coleman –
The Bumble Bee Shrimp are colorful and active in a 10-gallon tank. I kept them in pairs with a small starfish, and they seem to be feeding on the tube feet. Water parameters were stable, and they molted well after adjusting iodine levels. Easy to care for once the conditions are right.
Caroline Coleman –
I noticed the shrimp are very curious and clean the tank occasionally. They don’t eat the echinoderms regularly, so I supplement with frozen foods. The tank needs moderate lighting and stable iodine, which I’ve maintained with regular testing.
Sebastian Hamilton –
Great addition to a nano reef tank. The black and yellow stripes stand out. I keep them in pairs and they coexist peacefully. Avoid copper-based treatments—this is critical for their molting cycle.