Although Pistol Shrimp seem quite small, they can produce surprisingly loud noises. In the aquarium or in nature, Pistol Shrimp are known for their characteristic popping noise, which has startled and amazed aquarists and divers alike.

The Pistol Shrimp gets its name from the noise it makes - a sharp popping similar to a pistol shot. This snapping sound is produced when water is ejected from the Pistol Shrimp's pincer as it opens or closes. Pistol Shrimp are generally peaceful and are considered to be reef safe, provided no other shrimp are kept with them. When kept with Shrimp Gobies, Pistol Shrimp will form a symbiotic relationship with them. The Goby will warn the Pistol Shrimp of any predator's approach, at which point both will hide in the same hole or shelter. The Pistol Shrimp will feed the Goby and dig a tunnel in which both live. In order to help ensure that your Pistol Shrimp can molt properly, you should be sure that levels of iodine and calcium in the aquarium are good. Pistol Shrimp cannot tolerate high nitrate levels; also, as with all invertebrates, copper-based medications are very bad for Pistol Shrimp. Pistol Shrimp are good cleaners and will sift through aquarium substrate to obtain food. They will also glean floating particles to consume. It is important to provide plenty of hiding places for your Pistol Shrimp. Sandy or gravel substrates may also be helpful, as your Pistol Shrimp can burrow into them.

The Pistol Shrimp grows to 2 to 3 inches (5 to 8 centimeters) in length. One claw, larger than the rest, has a mechanism that makes a snapping noise. The eyes are positioned on short stalks. Pistol Shrimp come in a variety of colors and patterns. Some are more red, while others are brownish or yellow. Many are striped with white.

Found throughout most of the Indo Pacific, Pistol Shrimp are quite common both in the wild and in captivity. They are generally hardy and can make great additions to many systems.

Temperatures between 72 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit (23 to 26 degrees Celsius) are acceptable to for these shrimp. The pH value should measure 8.3 to 8.4 and the specific gravity should remain between 1.023 and 1.025. Iodine supplements will help the Pistol Shrimp to molt properly. As with all invertebrates, copper based medicines should not be added to an aquarium where Pistol Shrimp are kept, and water quality should be kept good. Pistol Shrimp usually get along well with fish. They may act territorial toward other shrimp. Since they are scavengers it is normally not necessary to provide supplemental feedings. Before purchasing a Pistol Shrimp or deciding where to place an aquarium, one should take into consideration the fact that these shrimp can be a bit noisy, particularly at night.

There is currently no special breeding information in our databases for this animal. To submit breeding / propagation information that is specific to this animal please click here.