Pacific Cleaner Shrimp (Note: Decapod Crustacean, not a fish)

Physical Characteristics

Distinctive coloration featuring two bright red longitudinal stripes flanking a central white stripe on the back. It possesses long, white antennae used for signaling, a translucent yellowish body, and white spots on the red tail fin.

Habitat & Distribution

Tropical coral reefs in the Indo-Pacific and Red Sea. They are typically found in 'cleaning stations' within reef crevices, caves, or under ledges at depths ranging from 5 to 40 meters.

Size & Weight

Adults typically reach a length of 5 to 6 centimeters (approximately 2 to 2.4 inches). Their weight is negligible, often less than 10 grams.

Similar Looking Species

Lysmata grabhami (Atlantic Cleaner Shrimp), which is nearly identical but is found in the Atlantic Ocean and has stripes that continue all the way through the tail.

Ecological Role

Functions as a cleaner organism that removes parasites and dead tissue from reef fish. They have a symbiotic relationship with many fish species. Conservation status: Not Evaluated (NE) globally, but common in the aquarium trade.

Identified on: 2/21/2026

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