Stenopus cyanoscelis

Datasheet

General Description

The Yellow Banded Coral Shrimp, scientifically known as Stenopus cyanoscelis, is a vibrant marine invertebrate characterized by its yellow body and legs with red, and sometimes white, bands on its chelae and abdomen. Belonging to the Stenopodidae family, this shrimp earns the nickname "Caribbean Boxing Shrimp" due to the large pinchers on its third set of legs, often held erect resembling a boxer preparing for a bout.

Aquarium Suitability

This species is considered suitable for aquariums, provided there is ample room for the Yellow Banded Coral Shrimp to move freely with its long antennae. It is best kept singly or as a mated pair, as it tends to be intolerant of others of the same species and may harass smaller shrimp of different species.

Care and Hardiness

Yellow Banded Coral Shrimp are relatively hardy but require slow acclimation to avoid salinity and pH shock. They are intolerant of high nitrate or copper levels but necessitate correctly maintained iodine levels in the water to facilitate proper molting. Breeding attempts are typically unsuccessful due to larvae being prone to destruction by filtration and skimming processes.

Reef Suitability

Reef enthusiasts would find the Yellow Banded Coral Shrimp a valuable addition to their setup, as it is compatible with reef environments. Additionally, these shrimp serve as efficient bristleworm hunters in reef tanks, aiding in controlling the population of these undesirable pests.

Aquarium Setup

When setting up an aquarium for Yellow Banded Coral Shrimp, it is essential to maintain water parameters within the ranges of pH 8.1-8.4, specific gravity of 1.023-1.025, and carbonate hardness (KH) of 8-12. Supplementing the water with calcium, magnesium, iodine, and trace elements can further support the health of these shrimp.

Behaviour

Known for their peaceful temperament, Yellow Banded Coral Shrimp exhibit fascinating behavior, including their characteristic boxing stance with raised pinchers. Care should be taken to ensure they are not housed with aggressive tank mates that may pose a threat to their well-being.

Feeding and Diet

In their natural habitat, these shrimp feed on parasites, dead tissue from fish, and various tiny organisms. In aquarium settings, they readily accept a diet consisting of flaked and frozen foods, plankton, and meaty items. Their carnivorous nature makes them effective scavengers in the tank environment.

Dimorphism and Captive Reproduction

Yellow Banded Coral Shrimp do not exhibit distinctive dimorphism, and their breeding in captivity is challenging, often resulting in unsuccessful larval development due to filtration and skimming processes destroying the offspring.

Habitat and Distribution

Native to the Caribbean region, the Yellow Banded Coral Shrimp inhabits reef environments where it plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance by preying on parasites and contributing to the control of bristleworm populations.