Harlequin Shrimp (Hymenocera Picta)

The Harlequin Shrimp is a stunning and unique marine invertebrate, easily recognized by its striking white and blue or purple coloration and intricate patterning. This shrimp is highly specialized in its diet, feeding exclusively on starfish, which makes it a fascinating yet challenging species to care for. In many reef tanks, Harlequin Shrimp are introduced to control or eradicate populations of Asterina starfish, a common pest. While beautiful and effective at controlling starfish populations, its specialized feeding habits require careful consideration.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 2 inches.
• Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum; a well-established tank with plenty of live rock for hiding and exploring is ideal.
• Diet: Obligate starfish predator; Harlequin Shrimp feed exclusively on starfish. They are often used to control populations of pest starfish such as Asterina. In captivity, they require a regular supply of starfish to sustain their health, making them more suitable for experienced aquarists.
• Water Temp: 74-80°F.
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
• Aggression: Peaceful; they do not pose a threat to other tank inhabitants, but may become territorial toward other Harlequin Shrimp. It's best to keep them in pairs or singly unless the tank is large.
• Skill Level: Advanced; due to their specialized diet and the need for a steady supply of starfish, they require more care and attention than typical invertebrates.
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe in terms of corals and other invertebrates, but will actively hunt starfish, including beneficial species such as serpent stars or sand-sifting starfish.

Special Diet - Exclusive Starfish Feeder
The Harlequin Shrimp's diet consists exclusively of starfish, making it highly specialized. It is often introduced to reef tanks to control or eliminate populations of Asterina starfish, which can become a nuisance. However, once the starfish population is depleted, the shrimp will require a continuous supply of starfish to survive. It will also prey on larger starfish, such as Fromia and Linckia species, so care should be taken if these are present in the tank.

Compatibility
While the Harlequin Shrimp is peaceful and will not harm fish or corals, its need for starfish can limit its compatibility in certain setups. It’s best suited for tanks where starfish control is needed or where a consistent supply of starfish can be provided.

Coloration

• Indo-Pacific Region: The Harlequin Shrimp has a beautiful and ornate white body adorned with blue or purple spots and patterns. Its striking appearance and intricate markings make it one of the most visually appealing marine shrimp​.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: The Harlequin Shrimp is found in the Indo-Pacific region, inhabiting coral reefs and rocky areas where it hunts for starfish. It prefers well-structured environments with plenty of hiding places, where it can stalk its prey.