Harlequin Shrimp

The Harlequin Shrimp  was first scientifically described in 1852. The Harlequin Shrimp have a white body with large light blue spots, and the males are slightly smaller than the female.

The Harlequin Shrimp can not tolerate copper or high nitrates, and iodine levels must be correct and maintained to ensure proper molting.

It is very particular about what it will eat, dining only on echinoderms, primarily starfish, and a few urchin species. It will eat starfish (Linckia, Fromia sp.) by starting at the tip of the arm and working its way to the central disc. The starfish may shed the arm, but is often mortally wounded.

As its primary source of food, you will need to supply the Harlequin Shrimp with starfish.

Harlequin shrimp occur widely across the Indo-Pacific Ocean, though they are never very abundant in any one area. They are mainly found on or around coral reefs in deeper parts of the subtidal zone.