The Harlequin Shrimp (Hymenocera elegans / Hymenocera picta) is one of the most visually striking and specialized shrimp species available in the marine aquarium hobby. First scientifically described in 1852, this species is instantly recognizable by its bright white body adorned with large, light blue spots and elegant, flattened body shape. Males are typically slightly smaller than females, especially when kept as bonded pairs.
This species is closely related to the Hawaiian Hymenocera picta, which displays purple and red spotting. The Harlequin Shrimp’s oversized claws (chelipeds) are primarily ornamental, used for display rather than hunting.
Harlequin Shrimp are peaceful but highly specialized predators and are best kept as mated pairs, which exhibit fascinating cooperative feeding behavior. They are reef-safe with corals and fish but not compatible with echinoderms, as these form their exclusive diet.
They prefer aquariums with moderate lighting, ample rockwork, and stable water parameters. Due to their sensitivity, Harlequin Shrimp cannot tolerate copper-based medications and require low nitrate levels. Maintaining proper iodine levels is essential for successful molting and long-term health.
Harlequin Shrimp are obligate echinoderm feeders, meaning they will eat only starfish and select sea urchins.
Primary food sources include:
Starfish (Asterias rubens for adults)
Linckia or Fromia species (often used for juveniles)
Occasionally small sea urchins (adults only)
They feed by starting at the tip of a starfish arm and slowly working toward the central disc. While starfish may drop an arm as a defense mechanism, they are typically fatally injured during the process. Because of this, regular starfish supply is mandatory for keeping Harlequin Shrimp.
Lighting: Moderate
Tank Setup: Live rock with crevices and shelter
Diet: Starfish only (obligate feeder)
Water Quality: Low nitrates, stable salinity
Iodine: Required for proper molting
Medications: Cannot tolerate copper
Experienced reef keepers
Species-specific or specialty reef systems
Aquarists prepared for specialized feeding
Display tanks featuring unique invertebrates
The Harlequin Shrimp (Hymenocera elegans / Hymenocera picta) is one of the most visually striking and specialized shrimp species available in the marine aquarium hobby. First scientifically described in 1852, this species is instantly recognizable by its bright white body adorned with large, light blue spots and elegant, flattened body shape. Males are typically slightly smaller than females, especially when kept as bonded pairs.
This species is closely related to the Hawaiian Hymenocera picta, which displays purple and red spotting. The Harlequin Shrimp’s oversized claws (chelipeds) are primarily ornamental, used for display rather than hunting.
Harlequin Shrimp are peaceful but highly specialized predators and are best kept as mated pairs, which exhibit fascinating cooperative feeding behavior. They are reef-safe with corals and fish but not compatible with echinoderms, as these form their exclusive diet.
They prefer aquariums with moderate lighting, ample rockwork, and stable water parameters. Due to their sensitivity, Harlequin Shrimp cannot tolerate copper-based medications and require low nitrate levels. Maintaining proper iodine levels is essential for successful molting and long-term health.
Harlequin Shrimp are obligate echinoderm feeders, meaning they will eat only starfish and select sea urchins.
Primary food sources include:
Starfish (Asterias rubens for adults)
Linckia or Fromia species (often used for juveniles)
Occasionally small sea urchins (adults only)
They feed by starting at the tip of a starfish arm and slowly working toward the central disc. While starfish may drop an arm as a defense mechanism, they are typically fatally injured during the process. Because of this, regular starfish supply is mandatory for keeping Harlequin Shrimp.
Lighting: Moderate
Tank Setup: Live rock with crevices and shelter
Diet: Starfish only (obligate feeder)
Water Quality: Low nitrates, stable salinity
Iodine: Required for proper molting
Medications: Cannot tolerate copper
Experienced reef keepers
Species-specific or specialty reef systems
Aquarists prepared for specialized feeding
Display tanks featuring unique invertebrates
