Randall's pistol shrimp

Alpheus randalli

InvertebrateMarine

Randall's pistol shrimp is a small, stocky shrimp with a bright orange body and white spots. It has a large asymmetrical claw that produces a powerful snap capable of stunning prey. It lives in symbiosis with gobies of the genus Amblyeleotris or Cryptocentrus: the shrimp digs and maintains the burrow, while the goby stands guard. In an aquarium, this duo is highly appreciated for its fascinating behavior.

Recommended parameters

ParameterRecommended range
Temperature24–28
pH8.1–8.4
NO₃≤ 20
PO₄≤ 0.1

Care

Difficulty3/5
Dietcarnivore
Min. tank80 L
Min. group1
Adult size4 cm
Lifespan3 ans
Temperamentpaisible (sauf avec ses congénères)

Care notes

Temperature 24-28°C, salinity 1.023-1.025, pH 8.1-8.4. Deep sandy substrate (10 cm) for digging. Pair with a partner goby. Feed with frozen meaty foods and pellets. Avoid aggressive burrowing fish.