Description
The attractive Red Banded Snapping Shrimp is a small Pistol Shrimp that is colored with alternating red and white bands. By far the interesting aspect of pistol shrimp are their ability to form a symbiotic relationship with some species of goby fish. The Red Banded Snapping shrimp have a symbiotic relationship with gobies of the genera Amblyeleotris and Stonogobiops. The beneficial shrimp are constantly moving gravel, excellent sand stirrers and scavengers of the reef aquarium.
Pistol shrimps belonging to the genus Alpheus include the popular tiger pistol shrimp and Red Banded Snapping Shrimp. The goby, with better eyesight, warns the shrimp of predators. The Red Banded Snapping Shrimp rewards the goby by sharing their food. The Alpheus bisincisus makes a sound by using an appendage on the pincher arm, which moves when the pincher is opened or closed and water is ejected. Red Banded Snapping Shrimp thrive in environments with sand, rock, caves, and areas of lower light. They will hang out in the lower portion of the tank, near rocks or ledges to keep out of the direct light. If in pairs, one will stand guard at the burrow while the other is inside.
Diet and Feeding
Feeding the Alpheus randalli shrimp should not be a problem since they should scavenge the tank for any uneaten food and detritus. They will accept any meaty freeze dried or frozen foods and bottom feeder tablets, as well as scavenge for algae in the aquarium. One warning, all Snapping Shrimp are intolerant of copper medications and high aquarium nitrate levels.
Level of Care Easy
Reef Compatibility Excellent
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