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Peppermint Shrimp
| Scientific Name | Lysmata wurdemani |
| Diet | Carnivore; scavenger, parasites, aiptasia anemones |
| Alt Common Name | Veined Shrimp |
| Family | Hippolytidae |
| Origin | Caribbean |
| Aquarist Level | Novice |
| Reef Safe | Yes |
| Coloration | White with Red markings |
| Disposition | Peaceful |
| Hardiness | Very |
| Mature Size | 2 inches - body |
| Reproduction Method | Female carries greenish eggs on abdomen |
| Sexual Dimorphism | Oldest specimen exhibits female characteristics. |
| Venomous | No |
Notes: Shrimp from the genus Lysmata are useful in the aquarium as all purpose cleaners. They are an effective defense against parasites such as ich, because it is their nature to remove external parasites from tank mates. Cleaner shrimp are also expert scavengers, keeping the aquarium free of detritus. The peppermint shrimp is also prized for its ability to consume aiptasia anemones. This species must molt in order to grow. Generally at night, it will lay on its back and exit its exoskeleton. A new exoskeleton is excreted and will harden over a period of several hours. The animal is vulnerable at this time and should not be disturbed. Proper iodine levels assist with successful molting.