Shrimp – Tiger Pistol

Tiger Pistol Shrimp Care Tips:

Minimum Tank Size: 5 Gallons

Max Size: Up to 7.5cm (3″)

Diet: Omnivore

Temperament: Peaceful

Lifespan: Up to 4 years

Scientific Name: Alpheus Bellulus

Other Names: Tiger Snapping Shrimp, Symbiosis Shrimp, Snapping Shrimp

Coral Safe: Yes

Invertebrate Safe: Yes

The tiger pistol shrimp is a common species of shrimp often seen in the hobby. Their scientific name is Alpheus Bellulus but their often referred to by their common names the Tiger pistol shrimp, the tiger snapping shrimp, or the symbiosis shrimp. This shrimp comes from the Alpheidae family. Their maximum size is 3” and they can live up to 4 years. Tiger pistol shrimp are omnivores that will scavenge leftover food from the tank. Their minimum tank size is 5 gallons. Tiger pistol shrimp are considered peaceful and are both coral and invertebrate safe.

Pistol shrimp get their name from using their large claw to make a loud popping noise that can be heard from outside of the tank. This is used as more of a defensive mechanism and will not harm any other tank mates. Pistol shrimp pair will often pair with symbiosis gobies to create a mutually beneficially relationship. Pistol shrimp are nearly blind but are awesome diggers, the pistol shrimp will dig a hole for the shrimp and goby to live in. The goby will act as a look out and if a threat is detected both the goby and the shrimp will retreat into their hole.