Ornamental-trade
Guides
Stenopus hispidus
banded coral shrimp, banded cleaner shrimp, coral banded shrimp
Stenopus hispidus is a marine decapod crustacean in the family Stenopodidae, recognized as one of the most widely distributed cleaner shrimps in tropical seas. The species reaches 60 mm in total length and exhibits striking red-and-white banded coloration on the carapace, abdomen, and enlarged third pereiopods. It is exclusively monogamous, with pairs occupying reef territories 1–2 meters in diameter. The species advertises cleaning services to client fish through a distinctive "dancing" behavior involving lateral antennae movement, and removes parasites, fungi, and damaged tissue using its three pairs of claws. Females are typically larger than males and carry externally fertilized eggs until hatching.