Curly Que Pistol Shrimp

The Curly Que Pistol Shrimp (Alpheus armatus) is a semi-aggressive species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its striking red-and-white banded coloration, distinctive curly claws, small size, and fascinating snapping behavior. Males typically develop larger, more pronounced snapping claws used for defense and communication, while females/juveniles are smaller with less developed claws but share the same bold banded pattern.

They reach about 1.5–2 inches in size and should be housed in aquariums of at least 10–20 gallons, preferably larger if kept with tank mates. Provide a sandy substrate, live rock with crevices, and plenty of hiding spots, along with stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temp ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4), and a secure lid since many pistol shrimp may attempt to escape.

Diet should consist of frozen mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, copepods, finely chopped meaty foods, and sinking pellets, though they will also scavenge for detritus. With proper care, this shrimp makes a standout addition to the aquarium, often forming a fascinating symbiotic relationship with watchman gobies.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.