Shrimp – Emperor

Emperor Shrimp Care Tips

Minimum Tank Size:  10 Gallons

Max Size: Up to 2.5cm (1″)

Diet: Omnivore

Temperament: Peaceful

Lifespan: Up to 3 years

Scientific Name: Periclimenes Imperator

Other Common Names: Anemone Shrimp, Carid Shrimp, Commensal Emperor Shrimp, Commensal Shrimp, Emperor Partner Shrimp, Imperator Commensal Shrimp, Imperator Shrimp, Imperial Cleaner Shrimp, Imperial Partner Shrimp.

Coral Safe: Yes

Invertebrate Safe: Yes

The emperor shrimp is one of the rarest species that is barely seen in the hobby. Its scientific name is Periclimenes Imperator but it’s referred to by its common name the emperor shrimp. It has many other names that include Anemone Shrimp, Carid Shrimp, Commensal Emperor Shrimp, Commensal Shrimp, Emperor Partner Shrimp, Imperator Commensal Shrimp, Imperator Shrimp, Imperial Cleaner Shrimp, Imperial Partner Shrimp. The emperor shrimp comes from the Palaemonidae family. Their maximum size is 1” and they can live up to 3 years. Emperor shrimp are omnivores, they will scavenge algae in the tanks and look for tiny crustaceans. Their minimum tank size is 10 gallons. Emperor shrimp are peaceful and will not bother coral or invertebrates.

Emperor shrimp will create a symbiotic relationship with sea cucumbers or nudibranchs. The shrimp will benefit from protection from predators while also cleaning any parasites on the skin of the cucumber. Emperor shrimp will do better with a cucumber/nudibranch to live with but it is not necessary for survival.