Where to buy Pistol Shrimp
ReefDock searches the following reef retailers for this invertebrate. Click through to see the live price.
- Search Saltwaterfish
Saltwaterfish
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- Search Amazon
Amazon
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- Search Petco
Petco
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About Pistol Shrimp
Pistol shrimp are small, stocky shrimp with asymmetrical claws; one claw is notably enlarged and forms the characteristic "pistol" used for stunning prey. Coloration varies by species, ranging from translucent white and tan to bright red or blue, often with banded patterns.
Key facts
- Compatibility
- Pistol shrimp are territorial and may attack small fish or delicate invertebrates. They form monogamous pairs and tolerate tank-mates that respect their burrow space. Best housed singly or as bonded pairs.
- Notes
- Photo needed: new livestock catalog expansion entry added on 2026-04-25. Often pairs with watchman gobies and needs sand/rubble for burrows. Photo candidate added via SearchAPI on 2026-04-25 from inaturalist.org. Verify species match and usage rights before marking final.
- Category
- Shrimp
- Care Level
- Moderate
- Appearance Description
- Pistol shrimp are small, stocky shrimp with asymmetrical claws; one claw is notably enlarged and forms the characteristic "pistol" used for stunning prey. Coloration varies by species, ranging from translucent white and tan to bright red or blue, often with banded patterns.
- Diet Details
- Omnivorous scavengers feeding on small crustaceans, detritus, and meaty foods. Offer mysis shrimp, chopped fish, and quality pellets 1–2 times daily.
- Water Parameters
- Temperature: 72-80°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.023-1.026
- Family
- Alpheidae
- Min tank size
- 30 gallons
- Max Size
- 2
- Type
- Predatory
- Origin
- Tropical and subtropical Indo-Pacific, including Hawaii, Caribbean, Red Sea, and Indo-Pacific coral reefs.
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