Randall's Pistol Shrimp care guide
Randall's Pistol Shrimp (Alpheus randalli) — minimum tank 60 L, temperature 24-26 °C, pH 8.1-8.4.
Overview
Randall's Pistol Shrimp (Alpheus randalli) is a marine pistol (snapping) shrimp of the family Alpheidae, listed in the Aquairi knowledge base as an intermediate-level species. Striking red-and-white striped pistol shrimp that lives in symbiosis with shrimp gobies (e.g. Stonogobiops). Snapping claw produces a loud 'pop' to stun prey.
Taxonomy
- Family: Alpheidae
- Genus: Alpheus
- Scientific name: Alpheus randalli
- Common synonyms: Candy Cane Pistol Shrimp
Habitat
Alpheus pistol (snapping) shrimp are reef and sand-flat alpheids that bear one greatly enlarged claw. Snapping the claw produces a cavitation bubble and a loud pop used to stun prey and deter rivals; many species share a burrow with a partner goby in a well-known symbiosis. In the Aquairi knowledge base this species is recorded from Indo-Pacific.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 60 L (15.9 US gal)
- Adult size: 3-5 cm
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- GH: 8-12 °dGH
- KH: 8-12 °dKH
- Salinity (specific gravity): 1.024-1.026
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
Diet
The species is a scavenger, feeding on detritus, small invertebrates and organic particles collected around its burrow; in aquaria it readily takes sinking pellets and frozen foods.
Compatibility
The Aquairi knowledge base lists this species as peaceful. Suitable tank mates include Shrimp gobies (Stonogobiops, Cryptocentrus). It should be kept away from Predatory fish, Triggerfish. It pairs naturally with a partner goby that shares and guards its burrow.
Breeding
Breeding requires a planktonic larval stage, generally in brackish or marine water, which makes captive reproduction very difficult and rarely achieved in home aquaria.