Candy Cane Pistol Shrimp (S)

The Candy Cane Pistol Shrimp (Alpheus randalli) is a small and fascinating reef invertebrate known for its bright red and white banded coloration and oversized snapping claw. Best known for forming a symbiotic relationship with compatible shrimp gobies, this active burrower adds unique behavior and personality to a reef aquarium.

Care Information

Care Level: Easy to Moderate
Candy Cane Pistol Shrimp are generally hardy once established but do best in stable, mature aquariums with a suitable sandy substrate and plenty of secure rockwork.

Temperament: Peaceful
Generally peaceful toward fish and most reef inhabitants, although they may become territorial around their burrow or toward other small burrowing shrimp.

Reef Safe: Yes
Candy Cane Pistol Shrimp are considered reef safe and typically leave corals alone. They may move sand, shells, and small pieces of rubble while constructing and maintaining their burrow.

Minimum Tank Size: 10+ gallons
Their small adult size makes them suitable for nano and larger reef aquariums, provided there is enough substrate and secure rockwork for burrowing.

Diet: Omnivore and Scavenger
Offer small pieces of mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, sinking marine pellets, and other appropriately sized foods. They will also scavenge leftover food that reaches the sand bed.

Maximum Size: Approximately 1.5 to 2 inches.

Provide a sandy substrate with small pieces of rubble near securely positioned rockwork where the shrimp can establish its burrow. Candy Cane Pistol Shrimp can form a symbiotic partnership with compatible shrimp gobies, using its antennae to maintain contact while the goby acts as a lookout for danger. Like other marine invertebrates, they are sensitive to copper-based medications and sudden changes in water parameters.