The **Pederson Cleaner Shrimp**, known scientifically as Ancylomenes pedersoni, is a small, see-through crustacean found in the Caribbean Sea. This shrimp is easily identified by its unique violet to purple markings on its body and limbs, contrasting with its otherwise transparent appearance. In its natural environment, the **Pederson Cleaner Shrimp** engages in a symbiotic relationship with sea anemones, particularly the corkscrew anemone (Bartholomea annulata) and the giant Caribbean anemone (Condylactis gigantea). The anemone's stinging tentacles offer the shrimp protection from predators, while the shrimp cleans the anemone by eating mucus and debris. This shrimp is also famous for establishing cleaning stations near its host anemone, where it uses its long, white antennae to attract fish looking to have parasites and dead tissue removed.

In a home aquarium, the **Pederson Cleaner Shrimp** adds a captivating element of natural marine behavior. While it doesn't strictly need a host anemone to thrive in captivity, providing one can encourage more natural behaviors and offer the shrimp a sense of security. These shrimp are generally peaceful and can be kept in groups, often interacting with each other. They are reef-safe, meaning they won't harm corals or other invertebrates, making them a great addition to a mixed reef tank. Their constant cleaning activities are not only fascinating to watch but also contribute to the overall health of the fish in the aquarium. Fish often wait patiently for their turn to be cleaned, showcasing a remarkable interspecies interaction within the tank.

Caring for the **Pederson Cleaner Shrimp** is relatively easy, making it a suitable choice for both novice and experienced marine aquarists. A mature aquarium of at least 10 gallons is recommended, with stable water parameters being crucial for their health. Ideal conditions include a temperature range of 72-78?F, a specific gravity of 1.023-1.025, and a pH of 8.1-8.4. While they actively clean fish, their diet should be supplemented with a variety of foods. They are omnivores and will readily accept finely chopped meaty foods, such as mysis shrimp and brine shrimp, as well as high-quality flake and pellet foods. It's important to ensure they are well-fed, especially in tanks with few fish, to prevent them from becoming lethargic. Due to their peaceful nature, they should not be housed with large, predatory fish that may view them as a meal. With proper care, these engaging little shrimp can live for a couple of years, providing endless fascination and a valuable cleaning service to the miniature ecosystem of a home aquarium.

• Temperament: Peaceful
• Tank Size: 20 Gallons
• Maximum Size: 2 inches
• Coloration: Blue, White
• Diet: Carnivore
• Regions Found: Atlantic
• Reef Compatible: Yes
• Experience Level: Beginner
• Water Conditions: 74-82?F, SG 1.020-1.027, PH 7.9-8.5
• Other Names: Pederson Shrimp

Size Categories: Tiny: Up to 0.75 inches, Small: Over 0.75-1 inch, Small/Medium: Over 1-1.25 inches, Medium: Over 1.25-1.5 inches, Medium/Large: Over 1.5-1.75 inches, Large: Over 1.75-2.25 inches, Extra Large: Over 2.25-3 inches, Extra Extra Large: Over 3 inches

Approximate Size: 0.5-1 inch