Harlequin Shrimp Hymenocera Picta

Harlequin Shrimp (Hymenocera picta)

Overview:
The Harlequin Shrimp is a striking and highly specialized marine invertebrate, known for its vivid patterns and delicate appearance. It is a captivating addition to reef aquariums, but requires careful husbandry due to its specialized diet.

Origin:
Native to the Indo-Pacific, commonly found on coral reefs and rocky substrates.

Feeding:
Specialist carnivore. Feeds exclusively on starfish, often consuming them slowly over time. Requires a steady supply of live starfish in captivity to maintain health.

Tank Mates:
Reef-safe with corals and non-predatory fish. Avoid housing with starfish you wish to keep, as it will consume them. Avoid aggressive or predatory tank mates that may stress it.

Aggression:
Non-aggressive toward other species, but may be territorial toward conspecifics.

Experience Level:
Advanced. Requires a mature, well-established reef tank with stable water parameters and a reliable supply of suitable starfish for feeding.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72–78°F (22–25.5°C)

• pH: 8.1–8.4

• Salinity: 1.023–1.025

• dKH: 8–12