Striped Shrimpfish
An extraordinary fish that swims permanently head-down in tight formation, its body flattened into a thin transparent blade with a dark stripe. Unlike anything else in the hobby.
Feeding
Feeds on tiny live crustaceans taken from the water column with a minute tube mouth. Needs live copepods, live baby brine shrimp and enriched frozen cyclops, several times daily. Most specimens refuse larger prepared foods.
Compatibility
Entirely peaceful and utterly defenceless. Must be kept in a species tank or with the calmest possible tankmates. Keep in a group of five or more.
Behaviour and personality
Hovers vertically head-down, moving as a synchronised group. Shelters among long-spined urchins or branching coral in the wild.
Before you buy
| Notes |
|---|
| The mouth is extremely small and specialized for live prey. Do not offer prepared foods. |
FAQ
What kind of food does the Striped Shrimpfish require?
It requires live copepods, live baby brine shrimp, and enriched frozen cyclops, fed several times a day. It will not accept prepared or larger frozen foods.
Can it be kept with other fish?
It is entirely peaceful but very defenceless. It should be kept in a species tank or with the calmest possible tankmates. A group of five or more is recommended.
How does it behave in the tank?
It swims head-down in a tight, synchronized formation and hovers vertically. It often shelters among long-spined urchins or branching coral.
Dominic Henderson –
The Striped Shrimpfish is a unique and mesmerizing addition to my tank. It moves in perfect unison and creates a beautiful, quiet presence. I feed it live brine shrimp every day and it’s very active during the evening. Only works well in a group, so I kept five together. Very peaceful and doesn’t stress other fish.
Austin Ross –
It’s a stunning fish with a very unusual appearance. I had to adjust my feeding routine to provide live copepods, which required some effort. It’s best in a group and stays calm in a well-maintained tank. Not for beginners due to specific dietary needs.
Joanne Lee –
The synchronized swimming is absolutely captivating. I’ve had one for three months now and it’s still as active and curious as when I first got it. I keep it with other calm species and it doesn’t interfere with their behavior.