Description
The Tiger Pistol Shrimp Shrimp's body is tan with rust coloured broken stripes running across the back and vivid Blue stripes on its legs, arms, and antennae. Because the Tiger Snapping Shrimp are constantly moving gravel around, Tigers Snapping shrimp are considered an excellent sand stirrer for the reef aquarium, as well as a terrific scavenger of any uneaten food. The Tiger Pistol Shrimp makes a loud "Snapping" sound. They do it when they feel threatened. This "snapping sound" comes from an appendage on the pincher which moves when the pincher is opened or closed and water is ejected.
The Tiger Pistol Shrimp also called the Tiger Snapping Shrimp forms a symbiotic relationship with many species of goby fish. This is commonly seen in pistol shrimps belonging to the genus Alpheus such as the Tiger pistol shrimp. The symbiotic relationship with gobies is remarkable to watch. The goby, with much better eyesight, stands guard at their jointly owned burrow and warns the pistol shrimp of any predators. The shrimp who cannot see very well, says "thank you" to their goby by always sharing its food with the goby.
Tiger Pistol 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.
Diet and Feeding
Feeding the Tiger Pistol 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 pistol shrimp are intolerant of copper medications and high aquarium nitrate levels.
Level of Care Easy
Reef Compatibility Excellent
|