Harlequin Shrimp

Also known as Harlequin Prawn, Painted Shrimp

The Harlequin Shrimp is one of the most strikingly beautiful invertebrates available in the aquarium trade, featuring stunning cream and purple patterned markings. Native to the Indo-Pacific and Eastern Pacific, this species is famous for its unique appearance and fascinating behavior, though it requires specialized care due to its exclusive diet.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Hymenocera picta (Indo-Pacific), Hymenocera elegans (Eastern Pacific)
• Common Names: Harlequin Shrimp, Harlequin Prawn, Painted Shrimp, Clown Shrimp
• Adult Size: Up to 2 inches
• Lifespan: 2–4 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful toward fish and corals; predatory toward starfish
• Reef Compatibility: Reef safe with caution – will consume ornamental starfish including Asterina species
• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons for a pair
• Experience Level: Advanced – requires specialized feeding with live starfish

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Requires rockwork with caves, crevices, and hiding spots. Prefers subdued lighting. Provide a dedicated feeding area where they can manipulate starfish. Benefits from live rock structure for security.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C)
  • Salinity: 1.023–1.025
  • pH: 8.1–8.4
  • Maintain stable, high-quality water conditions with low copper and metal levels
• Equipment Recommendations:
  • Quality filtration system
  • Protein skimmer recommended
  • Moderate water flow
  • Avoid medications containing copper as invertebrates are highly sensitive

Diet & Feeding

Harlequin Shrimp are obligate starfish predators with very specific dietary requirements:

• Primary Diet: Live starfish only – this is non-negotiable
• Accepted Starfish: Asterina starfish, chocolate chip starfish, linkia starfish (note: blue linkia may be toxic)
• Feeding Method: Will flip starfish onto their backs and feed on tube feet. A single starfish can last 1–2 weeks depending on size
• Feeding Frequency: Provide new starfish when previous one is depleted
• Special Note: Some aquarists maintain a separate tank to culture Asterina starfish as a continuous food source. Pairs are more efficient feeders than single specimens.

Social Structure & Behavior

• Best Kept as: Single specimen or male/female pair
• Sexual Dimorphism: Females are larger with more rounded abdomens. Males are smaller and slimmer.
• Pair Bonding: Harlequin shrimp form monogamous pairs and can be kept together successfully. Pairs often coordinate hunting behavior.
• Activity: Most active during feeding. Otherwise may remain hidden during daylight hours.
• Tank Mates: Peaceful toward all fish and invertebrates except starfish. Should not be housed with predatory fish, large crabs, or aggressive species.

Notes & Considerations

• This species is a specialist predator – commitment to providing live starfish is essential before purchase.
• Will eliminate pest Asterina starfish in reef tanks, but will also consume desirable ornamental starfish.
• Highly intelligent invertebrate with fascinating hunting behaviors and teamwork in pairs.
• Vulnerable to predation – avoid housing with triggers, puffers, large wrasses, or aggressive crustacean predators.
• Like all invertebrates, sensitive to copper-based medications and rapid salinity changes.
• Molts regularly as it grows; provide iodine supplementation to support healthy molting.
• Excellent choice for nano reef tanks due to small size and fascinating behavior.

Why Choose a Quarantined Harlequin Shrimp?

Purchasing a quarantined specimen from us means you’re starting with a healthier, more robust invertebrate. All specimens are observed in species-appropriate conditions, confirmed to be feeding well on starfish, and acclimated to captive life before sale, giving you the best chance of success with this extraordinary but specialized species.