Camelback Shrimp

Rhynchocinetes spp.

Overview

Synonyms	N/A
Distribution	Tropical Seas
Sexual Dimorphism	Gonochoristic (distinct males and females that do not change sex). Mature males are said to have larger chelipeds. Females often seen full of eggs.
Maximum Size	4cm (1.6”)
Water Parameters	SG: 1.020-1.025, pH: 8.1-8.4
Temperature	Tropical: 23-27 deg C (73-81 deg F)
Compatibility	Non-Reef
Lighting	Low
Reef Aquarium Compatibility	Not reef safe – will prey on corals and polyps.

Description

Care

Camelback Shrimp are highly attractive decapods with their ornate markings and large reflective eyes; it is then, somewhat regrettable that they are capable of wreaking total havoc in reef aquaria. This nocturnal species is best suited to tanks with an abundance of live rock, stinging anemones and selected corals such as some of the deep water Bubble corals (Plerogyra sp.). Unless you are blessed with a show tank of mammoth proportions, you should not keep these shrimp with zoanthids, star polyps and the like; they will make very short work of them in their relentless search for favoured foodstuffs during the night. Camelback Shrimp are very sociable with one another and should be maintained in large colonies. Avoid keeping alongside fish that prey on crustaceans. There are several species of Camelback Shrimp in the Rhynchocinetes genus (so named for their hump-backed appearance), many being very tricky to tell apart. Care requirements for all are largely the same. Members of this genus also have a pronounced foldable rostrum, which has also earned them the alternative common name of Hinge-Beak Shrimp. Acclimatise slowly and carefully, preferably using the drip method or a Maidenhead Aquatics Fintro. As with other invertebrates, do not use copper-based medications if you have Camelback Shrimp in the tank. As these shrimp grow, they will moult every now and again, and you may find their exoskeletons in the tank. They are quite vulnerable for a few days once they have shed their exoskeleton, and may hide away until the new shell hardens. Will not tolerate a high nitrate level. May also be seen on sale as Dancing Shrimp.

Feeding

An omnivorous scavenger which should be offered a variety of foodstuffs such as vitamin-enriched brineshrimp, Spirulina-enriched brineshrimp, Mysis shrimp, plankton, finely chopped prawn/mussel/clam/cockle meat etc, plus fine sinking pellets and good quality flake. Will feed on the tissue of corallimorphs, zoanthids, and many corals.