Pistol Shrimp

Alpheus sp.

Identification	1–2 inch body with one enlarged snapping claw. Typically tan, brown, or olive-green. Often found in symbiotic partnership with watchman gobies.
Maximum Length	2 inches
Origin	Indo-Pacific
Minimum Tank Size	10 gallons
Reef Compatibility	Excellent

Behavior

Excavates and maintains a burrow in the substrate, living in mutualistic symbiosis with watchman gobies (Amblyeleotris or Stonogobiops species). The shrimp digs and maintains the burrow; the goby stands guard at the entrance and warns the nearly-blind shrimp of danger.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivore. Scavenges for small food particles. Will accept most meaty marine foods placed near its burrow.

Cautions

The characteristic loud snapping sound is normal behavior used to stun prey and communicate. May occasionally snap at passing small shrimp. Keep with a compatible watchman goby for the most natural behavior.