Pistol Shrimp - Common

Shrimp are active, entertaining and easy to keep. They shed their shells as they grow, and afterwards need to hide in the rock until their new shell hardens. Shrimp are highly excitable when food is present, and will do anything to get it. Some species may pester corals by attempting to reach food the coral has eaten. In this situation the shrimp should be provided food first. Large individuals may catch and consume smaller species.

Pistol shrimp are extremely adept at tunneling under the sand, helping to clean and aerate the substrate. Most species are olive in color and may grow to 2 inches. This type does not bond with any other animals.

The hard-working shrimp will excavate a burrow consisting of several tunnels, entrances and exits. At nighttime or when a tunnel is not being used the shrimp will block it off with shells and small rocks. It will make use of shells and crushed coral of various sizes which are important building material to create a stable dwelling. Rocks should be placed on the aquarium glass and sand poured around them to eliminate the danger of a cave-in when the shrimp excavates. The pistol shrimp has an enlarged claw which may make a clicking or popping sound.

If more than one pistol shrimp is to be kept in the same aquarium we recommend space enough to accommodate at least 24 inches between burrows. They are typically peaceful with all tank mates, although there is a small threat to other crustaceans if the pistol shrimp is not getting enough food. To minimize this threat any sort of fish food may be placed at the tunnel entrance for the shrimp to collect.