Product Description
Boxer Shrimp, also known as Banded Coral Shrimp (Stenopus hispidus), are popular marine aquarium inhabitants recognized by their striking red/white bands, large claws (on the 3rd leg set), and long antennae, acting as cleaner shrimp by removing parasites from fish, but are territorial (especially towards other shrimp) and best kept in pairs or alone, often hiding by day and foraging at night on reefs worldwide.
Appearance & Identification
Color: Alternating red and white bands, sometimes with purple borders, and long white antennae.
Claws: The third pair of legs are oversized claws used for display, defense, and cleaning, while the first two pairs are smaller for foraging.
Size: Typically 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) long.
Antennae: Very long and white, used to signal fish.
Behavior & Diet
Cleaner Role: They wave their antennae and use their claws to pick parasites, fungi, and dead tissue from fish.
Nocturnal: More active at night, hiding under ledges or in caves during the day.
Territorial: Aggressive towards other boxer shrimp and sometimes other shrimp species; best kept as monogamous pairs.
Monogamous: Form strong pair bonds and defend a territory.
Aquarium Care (General)
Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons, larger is better.
Water: Standard marine parameters (Temp: 72-78°F, Salinity: 1.023-1.025, pH: 8.1-8.4).
Tank Mates: Peaceful with most fish, but avoid very small fish or known predators (puffers, large wrasses) that might see them as food.
Tank Setup: Needs plenty of caves, ledges, and hiding spots.
Fun Facts
They perform a "dancing" movement with their antennae to signal fish.
Females are generally larger than males.
Can live 2-4 years in captivity.
