Purple Clawed Pistol Shrimp - Alpheus sp.

Purple Clawed Pistol Shrimp (Alpheus sp.)

The Purple Clawed Pistol Shrimp is a fascinating marine invertebrate recognised for its enlarged snapping claw, burrowing behaviour and attractive purple-toned markings. Best known for forming symbiotic relationships with suitable shrimp gobies, it creates and maintains burrows while the goby acts as a lookout for danger. Reef safe with caution and highly interesting to observe, it is best suited to mature marine aquariums with a soft sandy substrate and secure rockwork.

Common Name:
Purple Clawed Pistol Shrimp, Purple Pistol Shrimp

Scientific Name (Latin):
Alpheus sp.

Maximum Size:
Approximately 4–6 cm, depending on species and maturity

Water Type:
Marine

Origin / Natural Habitat:
Pistol shrimps within the Alpheus genus occur in tropical marine environments where they are commonly associated with sandy and rubble-covered reef areas.

They naturally construct burrows beneath rocks and reef structure and may form close partnerships with suitable shrimp gobies.

Water Parameters:
Temperature: 24–26°C
pH Range: 8.1–8.4
Salinity: SG 1.024–1.026
Nitrate: Low and stable
Copper: Must be avoided

Temperament:
Peaceful to Territorial

The Purple Clawed Pistol Shrimp is generally peaceful towards fish but may become territorial around its burrow.

It may also show aggression towards other small crustaceans that enter its territory, particularly in smaller aquariums.

Diet:
Omnivore / Scavenger

The Purple Clawed Pistol Shrimp feeds on small meaty foods, detritus and organic material found around the aquarium.

Offer a varied diet including frozen mysis, finely chopped prawn, krill and other suitable marine foods.

It will also scavenge uneaten food from around the substrate and rockwork.

Minimum Tank Size:
Approximately 50 litres

A suitable sandy substrate and secure rockwork are more important than aquarium volume alone.

Behaviour & Activity:
The Purple Clawed Pistol Shrimp spends much of its time excavating and maintaining a burrow beneath rockwork.

Its enlarged claw produces a characteristic snapping sound that may be heard from outside the aquarium.

When paired with a compatible shrimp goby, the shrimp maintains the shared burrow while the goby remains near the entrance and warns of approaching danger.

Reef Safe:
Reef Safe With Caution

The Purple Clawed Pistol Shrimp does not normally damage healthy corals.

However, its constant digging may move sand, small stones or unsecured coral frags, and very small crustaceans entering its burrow may be at risk.

It is therefore best considered reef safe with caution.

Special Requirements or Care Notes:
Provide a soft sandy substrate with small pieces of rubble to allow natural burrow construction.

Rockwork should be positioned securely on a stable base rather than resting loosely on the sand, as extensive digging can undermine unstable structures.

A compatible shrimp goby is not essential but can encourage fascinating natural symbiotic behaviour.

Avoid copper-based medications, as copper is highly toxic to marine crustaceans.

Careful acclimation is recommended, as shrimp can be sensitive to rapid changes in salinity and water chemistry.

Avoid housing with large predatory wrasses, hawkfish, triggerfish or other species likely to prey on small ornamental shrimp.

Suitable for:
Beginner to Intermediate

Availability:
Availability can vary depending on season and supplier.

All images are a visual representation of the invert you will receive, made to be as accurate as possible. Please note that Mother Nature is a wonderful thing, and variation in patterns and colours will occur — that is part of the unique beauty of these animals.