Red Banded Pistol Shrimp

The Invertebrate Red Banded Pistol Shrimp (Alpheus randalli) is a peaceful species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its striking red and white banded coloration, snapping claw, and interesting burrowing behavior.

Males typically have slightly larger claws and may be more territorial, while females and juveniles are smaller, more timid, and focus on hiding and burrow maintenance. They reach about 2 inches and should be housed in aquariums of at least 10 gallons.

Provide a deep sandbed for burrowing, live rock for shelter, and plenty of hiding spots, along with open swimming space. Maintain stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temperature ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4) and a secure lid, since many pistol shrimp are prone to digging and jumping.

Diet should consist of small meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, and high-quality pellets. With proper care, this shrimp makes a fascinating and colorful addition to reef or marine aquariums, especially for aquarists who enjoy interactive and burrowing invertebrates.

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.