Fire Shrimp (Lysmata debelius)
The Fire Shrimp is one of the most striking ornamental marine shrimps in the hobby, loved for its deep scarlet-red body, bright white antennae and bold white spotting. Native to the Western Indian Ocean / Indo-Pacific, it is a more secretive cleaner shrimp than the common Skunk Cleaner Shrimp and tends to spend much of the day tucked beneath overhangs or within rockwork before becoming more visible once settled. In a mature reef aquarium it can make an excellent addition, but it appreciates calm tankmates, stable water quality and plenty of hiding places.
Common Name:
Fire Shrimp, also commonly sold as Blood Red Fire Shrimp, Blood Shrimp or Cardinal Cleaner Shrimp.
Scientific Name (Latin): Lysmata debelius
| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | Up to 3 cm (1.2 inches) |
| Temperature | 24–28°C (75–82°F) |
| Water pH | 8.1–8.4 |
| Water Hardness | 8–12 dGH |
| Lifespan | 3–5 years |
FAQ
What kind of tank conditions does the Fire Shrimp prefer?
The Fire Shrimp prefers a mature reef aquarium with stable water quality, calm tankmates, and plenty of hiding places such as rockwork or overhangs.
Is the Fire Shrimp compatible with other marine species?
It works well with calm, non-aggressive marine species in a properly established reef tank. Avoid overly active or aggressive fish that may disturb its hiding spots.
How long does a Fire Shrimp typically live?
A Fire Shrimp typically lives for 3 to 5 years with proper care and stable environmental conditions.
Ruth James –
The Fire Shrimp is a stunning addition to my reef tank. Its bright red body and white spots stand out beautifully. It’s shy at first but settles into the rockwork and becomes active over time. I appreciate its cleaning behavior and how it adds visual interest without being aggressive.
Dylan Gill –
I bought this shrimp for its striking appearance. It’s a bit shy when first introduced, but after a week it started cleaning small debris from the tank. The water parameters need to be stable, but once that’s in place, it’s a peaceful and attractive resident.
Jason Wilkins –
The Fire Shrimp has become a highlight in my tank. Its color is vivid and it’s very active during the day once it finds a safe spot. I keep it with other peaceful reef fish and it doesn’t seem to interfere with their behavior.