Algae can be one of the most frustrating problems for aquarium owners. That green hair-like growth seems to constantly pop up no matter what you do. With their constant scrounging and picking, cleaner shrimp like peppermint shrimp (Lysmata wurdemanni) seem like they must eat some of that pesky algae. But do cleaner shrimp actually eat algae?
The short answer is no. Cleaner shrimp do not directly consume algae as a food source. Instead, they pick at algae to find small invertebrates to eat. While they don’t eat the algae itself, their scavenging does help remove algae growths and prevent new growths from forming.
Why Cleaner Shrimp Don’t Eat Algae
Cleaner shrimp are classified as omnivores Their natural diet consists of small meaty foods like copepods, amphipods and other tiny creatures They also consume detritus and decaying organic matter.
Algae lacks nutritional value for cleaner shrimp. These small crustaceans simply do not possess the enzymes needed to digest complex carbohydrates like those found in algae. Consuming algae provides no tangible benefits and only utilises energy.
Instead, cleaner shrimp use algae as a means to an end in their constant search for teeny aquatic invertebrates. Algae provides the perfect microhabitat for all kinds of small bugs that shrimp love to eat. Scavenging shrimp pick through algal growths looking for any hidden creatures.
How Cleaner Shrimp Help Control Algae
While they don’t munch on algae, cleaner shrimp do still help limit algae growth through their behaviours. As they disturb algae, it weakens the growths and prevents new algae from establishing itself.
Here are some of the ways cleaner shrimp help control algae:
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Dislodging established algae – As shrimp pick through algae they will dislodge some of it from surfaces. This removes nutrients and weakens growths.
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Increasing water flow – The fanning actions of their swimmerets helps improve water movement across algal growths. Better flow reduces growth.
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Making space for grazers – Removing sections of algae allows access for algae grazers like snails or fish.
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Eating algae propagules – Shrimp will consume tiny single-celled algae and algal spores they encounter.
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Reducing available nutrients – Consuming detritus helps remove excess nutrients that fuel algae growth.
So while they don’t directly eat algae as a food source, cleaner shrimp still make a great addition to help control algae through their scavenging behaviours. Adding a few to your cleanup crew can be a big help!
Best Cleaner Shrimp for Algae Control
Not all cleaner shrimp are equal when it comes to algae control. Some species are more active and thorough in their never-ending hunt through your tank. Here are three of the best shrimp to help control algae:
1. Peppermint Shrimp
Peppermint shrimp (Lysmata wurdemanni) stand out for their bright red bands on a white body. They are very active scavengers that will work diligently picking through algae growths. Their smaller size makes them great for nano and small tanks. Provide ample rockwork and they will keep it clean!
2. Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp
Scarlet skunk cleaner shrimp (Lysmata amboinensis) have a deep red coloration with white antennae. Slightly larger than peppermint shrimp, they will cover more ground as they scour surfaces. Their activity levels vary but most are constantly on the move hunting and picking.
3. Fire Shrimp
Fire shrimp (Lysmata debelius) are named for their bright red coloration. They are one of the most active shrimp species available. Fire shrimp rarely stop moving as they inspect every nook and cranny. They will quickly keep algae growths under control. Their larger size makes them suitable for bigger tanks.
Caring for Cleaner Shrimp
To keep your cleaner shrimp active and eager to scavenge, provide good general care and diet. Here are some must-know care tips:
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Tank Size – Aim for 10 gallons or larger. Make sure to include ample rockwork and decor for scavenging.
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Water Parameters – Maintain stable, high quality water with 0 ammonia and nitrites and low nitrates. Ideal pH is 8.1-8.4.
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Tankmates – Peaceful community fish that won’t nip or harass shrimp. Avoid aggressive fish.
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Feeding – Provide a mixed diet with quality shrimp pellets and treats like mysis or brine shrimp.
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Supplements – Add iodine and calcium to support exoskeleton growth and coloring.
Following these guidelines will keep your cleaner shrimp healthy and active. Make sure to quarantine and slowly acclimate any new shrimp additions. Test copper levels as shrimp are very sensitive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do cleaner shrimp eat hair algae?
Cleaner shrimp will pick through hair algae but do not directly consume it. They use it as a hunting ground for small bugs. Removing sections does help control growth.
What do I feed cleaner shrimp if not algae?
Cleaner shrimp eat tiny meaty foods. Provide a quality omnivore shrimp pellet along with treats like frozen mysis or brine shrimp. They also graze on microbial films and detrius.
How many cleaner shrimp should I get?
Start with 1 shrimp per 5-10 gallons of water. Add more for larger tanks, up to 1 per 2-3 gallons. Always quarantine new shrimp before adding.
Can cleaner shrimp live with fish/corals/anemones?
Most species do well in peaceful community tanks with fish and invertebrates. Avoid known shrimp predators. Watch for aggression as some individuals may nip corals or anemones.
Why did my cleaner shrimp die suddenly?
Sudden deaths typically indicate water quality issues. Test and correct any ammonia, nitrites, copper contamination or low oxygen levels. Slowly acclimate shrimp to avoid shock.
Conclusion
Cleaner shrimp are great scavengers that help limit algae through their constant searching activities. While they don’t directly consume algae, their grazing and disturbance does reduce growths. Certain species like peppermint shrimp really stand out for their algae control abilities. Provide a well-maintained tank and proper supplemental diet to keep your cleaner shrimp actively picking away!
