Emperor Shrimp

The Emperor Shrimp (Periclimenes imperator) is a peaceful species that is reef-safe, admired for its brilliant orange body accented with white and purple markings, as well as its fascinating symbiotic behavior of riding on nudibranchs, sea cucumbers, and other invertebrates. Males typically remain smaller and more slender, while females/juveniles are slightly larger and more robust. They reach about 0.8–1.2 inches and should be housed in aquariums of at least 10 gallons, though larger tanks are recommended if kept with host species.

Provide a fine sandbed, ample live rock, and host invertebrates (such as sea cucumbers, nudibranchs, or large sea stars) for natural behavior, stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temp ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4), and a secure lid since many small invertebrates can wander or be displaced by currents.

Diet should consist of mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, copepods, finely chopped meaty foods, and occasionally pellets or flakes. With proper care and host availability, this shrimp makes a standout and fascinating symbiotic addition to the aquarium.

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.