Red-spotted Pistol Shrimp (Alpheus rubromaculatus)

The Red-Spotted Pistol Shrimp is a fascinating and active invertebrate known for its symbiotic relationship with certain gobies and its powerful “snap” that it uses to communicate or deter potential threats. This shrimp displays a translucent body covered in bright red spots, making it a visually attractive addition to reef aquariums. Often paired with watchman gobies, the Red-Spotted Pistol Shrimp helps create a safe and mutualistic bond, where it builds and maintains a burrow while the goby stands guard.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 2 inches.
• Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum; requires sandy substrate for burrowing and plenty of rockwork to create hiding spots.
• Diet: Omnivorous; primarily scavenges detritus and uneaten food. It will also accept a varied diet of sinking pellets, mysis shrimp, and other small meaty foods.
• Water Temp: 72-78°F.
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
• Aggression: Peaceful; the Red-Spotted Pistol Shrimp is generally peaceful and compatible with a wide variety of tankmates. However, it may become territorial with other pistol shrimps if space is limited.
• Skill Level: Beginner; relatively hardy and easy to care for, making it suitable for aquarists of all levels.
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe; does not harm corals or other invertebrates, and its burrowing behavior provides natural aeration to the substrate.

Special Feature - Symbiosis with Gobies
The Red-Spotted Pistol Shrimp is often found in symbiotic partnerships with gobies, where the shrimp digs and maintains a burrow while the goby acts as a lookout. This relationship is beneficial for both species, and having a goby-pistol shrimp pair adds natural behavior and interest to the aquarium.

Compatibility
This shrimp is generally peaceful and does well with most fish, corals, and invertebrates in a reef setup. Avoid housing with aggressive or predatory fish, as they may see the shrimp as prey. It pairs exceptionally well with gobies for a symbiotic relationship.

Coloration

• Indo-Pacific Region: The Red-Spotted Pistol Shrimp features a translucent body adorned with vibrant red spots, which contrast beautifully against sandy and rocky substrates, making it a colorful and unique addition to the aquarium​.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: Found in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in sandy and rocky reef areas, where it digs burrows in the substrate and often forms partnerships with gobies for mutual protection​.