The Truth About Peppermint Shrimp and Coral Nipping

Are peppermint shrimp reef safe, or will they nip at your prized corals? This is a question asked by nearly every reefkeeper at some stage. The answer, as is so often the case in marine aquaria, is nuanced—and understanding the science can make all the difference to your tank’s success.

Peppermint Shrimp: One Name, Many Species

The term "peppermint shrimp" is widely used in the hobby, but in reality it covers several similar-looking species in the Lysmata genus. Only one, Lysmata boggessi, has been scientifically documented as a consistently reliable Aiptasia predator and a true reef-safe option. Other species—such as Lysmata ankeri, pederseni, or mislabelled camel shrimp (Rhynchocinetes spp.)—are often mixed in wholesale shipments and may behave very differently.

What Does the Science Say?

In controlled trials, Lysmata boggessi has demonstrated a strong preference for pest anemones like Aiptasia, with no documented evidence of systematic coral nipping. Reports of peppermint shrimp eating LPS, zoanthids, or soft corals almost always trace back to misidentified species—or to environmental stressors within the tank. In fact, some marine biologists have directly reviewed these claims and found them to lack credible evidence, describing them as speculative or based on marketing rather than science.

Why the Confusion?

The confusion largely stems from outdated trade names. Before 2006, most peppermint shrimp were sold as “Lysmata wurdemanni,” but this was actually a species complex. Many shrimp now labelled as wurdemanni in the UK are, in fact, boggessi, ankerii, or even unrelated species. Even respected suppliers have yet to catch up with the latest taxonomy.

When Can Issues Arise?

• Incorrect species: Non-boggessi peppermint shrimp or camel shrimp may nip corals or ignore Aiptasia altogether.
• Underfeeding: Like any opportunistic omnivore, a starving shrimp may sample coral tissue, especially soft, damaged, or unhealthy polyps.
• Overcrowding or stress: Too many shrimp or inadequate hiding places can lead to unusual behaviour.

How to Avoid Coral Nipping

• Source captive-bred Lysmata boggessi with confirmed identification—not generic "peppermint shrimp".
• Feed your shrimp adequately with a varied diet if Aiptasia is sparse.
• Provide plenty of rockwork and hiding spaces to reduce stress and aggression.

The Bottom Line

Lysmata boggessi is the only peppermint shrimp species that has been scientifically documented to control Aiptasia and remain genuinely reef safe. Occasional reports of coral nipping are almost always due to misidentification, poor husbandry, or exceptional circumstances—not the behaviour of healthy, well-fed boggessi in a stable system.

Still have questions or want help identifying your shrimp? Check our ID guide here or get in touch for expert advice.