Stenopus hispidus Coral Banded Shrimp M 5 cm

Overview

The Coral Banded Shrimp Stenopus hispidus is one of the most recognisable marine invertebrates in the hobby, prized for its vivid red-and-white banding, elegant long white antennae and fascinating behaviour. This medium-sized specimen is supplied at approximately 5 cm and is ideal for aquarists looking to add movement, colour and character to an established saltwater aquarium.

Although often called a “cleaner shrimp”, Stenopus hispidus is best understood as a bold scavenger and opportunistic predator rather than a dedicated cleaner species. It will happily pick at leftover meaty foods and may occasionally remove parasites or dead tissue from fish, but it should not be relied upon as a true cleaner shrimp in the same way as Lysmata species. Its striking appearance and interesting territorial behaviour make it a favourite for reef and fish-only systems alike.

At Tropical Fish Co, we supply healthy marine livestock with a focus on careful handling and reliable service. Order with confidence thanks to our live arrival guarantee and fast UK delivery, helping your new shrimp arrive in excellent condition and settle into its new home.

Care at a Glance

Origin & Natural Habitat

Stenopus hispidus is found across tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific and western Atlantic, inhabiting coral reefs, rocky ledges, caves and overhangs. In the wild it is usually seen tucked into crevices during the day, extending its long antennae into the water column to detect food and movement. This sheltered lifestyle is important to replicate in captivity, as the species prefers secure hiding places and will become more active once it feels settled.

Natural reef habitats provide strong water movement, stable salinity and excellent oxygenation. Coral Banded Shrimp are adapted to these conditions and do best in mature marine systems with consistent water quality. They are not suited to newly set-up tanks or unstable environments, and they appreciate the presence of live rock, caves and shaded areas where they can retreat.

Tank Setup & Water Parameters

A well-established marine aquarium of at least 100 litres is recommended for a single Coral Banded Shrimp. Larger tanks are even better, especially if you plan to keep it with peaceful fish and other invertebrates. Provide plenty of live rock with overhangs, gaps and secure caves so the shrimp can establish a territory. A sandy substrate is fine, but the key requirement is structure and hiding places.

Maintain stable reef conditions with a temperature of 24–28°C, salinity around 1.023–1.025, and pH between 8.1 and 8.4. Good filtration and regular maintenance are essential, as this species is sensitive to sudden changes in water chemistry. As with all crustaceans, it is also important to keep copper-based medications out of the aquarium, as these are toxic to shrimp and other invertebrates.

Coral Banded Shrimp may become territorial, particularly towards other shrimp of similar shape or size. In smaller aquariums, it is usually best kept singly unless the tank is large and carefully planned. Provide dimmer areas and avoid placing its main cave in a high-traffic zone where fish may constantly disturb it. Like other crustaceans, it will moult periodically, so ensure there are hiding places available during and after moulting when it is at its most vulnerable.

Feeding Guide

This species is an omnivorous scavenger with a strong preference for meaty foods. Offer a varied diet including frozen mysis, brine shrimp, krill, chopped seafood, marine pellets and quality sinking foods. It will also consume leftover fish food and detritus, which helps keep the tank tidy, but it should not be expected to survive on scraps alone.

Feed small portions several times per week, adjusting according to the stocking level of the aquarium. In heavily stocked tanks it may find enough natural leftovers, but regular target feeding helps keep it in good condition and supports healthy moulting. A varied diet with marine-based ingredients will help maintain colour, vitality and long-term health.

Tank Mates / Compatibility

Coral Banded Shrimp can be a good addition to peaceful marine communities, but compatibility should be considered carefully. It is generally best with calm fish that will not harass it and with invertebrates that do not compete for the same hiding spaces. Avoid housing it with aggressive predators or large wrasses that may prey on shrimp.

It is often fine with many reef-safe fish, but caution is advised around other ornamental shrimp, especially similar-bodied species such as cleaner shrimp or other banded shrimp. In smaller tanks, territorial disputes are more likely. If you want to keep multiple invertebrates, ensure the aquarium is spacious, mature and full of separate caves and ledges.

When introduced to a new tank, allow the shrimp time to settle before adding more boisterous tank mates. A stable, peaceful environment will encourage natural behaviour and reduce stress. With the right companions, Stenopus hispidus becomes a fascinating and long-lived resident that adds real personality to the aquarium.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

At Tropical Fish Co, we understand the importance of receiving healthy marine livestock in excellent condition. Our Coral Banded Shrimp are carefully selected and packed to help reduce stress during transit, and we offer fast UK delivery so your livestock reaches you promptly. Every order is backed by our live arrival guarantee for added peace of mind.

We aim to make marine fishkeeping as straightforward as possible, whether you are building a reef display or adding a standout invertebrate to an established saltwater system. From careful sourcing to reliable dispatch, we focus on quality at every stage. If you are looking for a hardy, visually striking shrimp with plenty of character, Stenopus hispidus is an excellent choice.