Saltcorner
By Bob Goemans
By Bob Goemans
Likely Reef Tank Suitable
Likely Fish-Only Tank Suitable
Even though there are a number of different members in this family, they all make the same noise, a sound similar to a 22 caliber shot. Hence their name "Pistol Shrimp." They do so by snapping the fingers of their single, yet exceptionally large claw.
Most are very small, less than 2 inches (4 cm) or less in body length. They are nocturnal creatures, usually hiding during the day under a rock until dusk. At night they come out and search for food and use the large claw to either scare away intruders or shock/stun other mealtime small crustaceans.
Usually come in on live rock and the only way you'll ever know one is in your aquarium is by hearing these single shot sounds, probably when you are trying to sleep! Some live in a symbiotic relationship with watchman gobies.
