What Eats Aiptasia? Pros and Cons of Natural Control Options

Aiptasia anemones are among the most persistent pests in marine aquaria, and nearly every reefkeeper faces them at some point. While there are many approaches to tackling Aiptasia, natural biological control is widely favoured for its effectiveness and reef safety. But which options actually work, and what are the pros and cons of each?

Peppermint Shrimp (Lysmata boggessi)

• Pros:
  • Scientifically documented to consume Aiptasia reliably (see Rhyne et al., 2004; Rhyne & Lin, 2006)
  • Reef safe when correctly identified as L. boggessi
  • Small, easy to introduce, and will often help clean up leftover food and detritus
  • Available as captive-bred stock—reducing pressure on wild populations
• Cons:
  • Other species sold as “peppermint shrimp” (e.g. ankerii, pederseni, camel shrimp) are unreliable or may ignore Aiptasia entirely
  • May be predated upon by wrasses or large fish if very small
  • Occasionally ignore large or well-established Aiptasia if well-fed on other foods

Berghia Nudibranch (Berghia stephanieae)

• Pros:
  • Obligate Aiptasia specialist—won’t touch corals, fish, or inverts
  • Can clear out large infestations if conditions are right
  • Very small and nocturnal—won’t disrupt tank dynamics
• Cons:
  • Highly sensitive to water quality, predators, and manual handling
  • Will starve once Aiptasia is depleted (and population may crash)
  • Often expensive and may require repeated introductions
  • Not ideal for tanks with wrasses or shrimp that may eat nudibranchs

Copperband Butterflyfish (Chelmon rostratus)

• Pros:
  • Striking appearance and natural Aiptasia predator
  • May also help with other pests, such as bristleworms
• Cons:
  • Can be difficult to acclimate to aquarium life and prepared foods
  • Some individuals ignore Aiptasia or may nip at LPS corals and tube worms
  • Best suited for experienced keepers and large, established tanks
  • Wild-caught; sustainability and transport stress are concerns

Filefish (Acreichthys tomentosus)

• Pros:
  • Known Aiptasia eater in many tanks
  • Generally hardy and adaptable
• Cons:
  • Some individuals may nip at soft corals or polyps
  • Appearance may not appeal to all reefkeepers
  • Not a guaranteed solution—feeding behaviour is variable

Chemical Methods (Kalkwasser Paste, Lemon Juice, Commercial Products)

• Pros:
  • Can be effective for spot-treating visible Aiptasia
  • Works quickly and is widely available
• Cons:
  • Labour-intensive for large infestations
  • May cause Aiptasia to retreat and spread via fragmentation
  • Potential risk to corals and tank chemistry if overused

The Verdict

Every method has its place, and the best choice depends on your tank size, inhabitants, and personal preferences. For most home reefkeepers seeking a sustainable, reef-safe, and scientifically proven option, captive-bred Lysmata boggessi remains the most reliable long-term choice for natural Aiptasia control. As always, careful species selection and tank compatibility are key to long-term success.

Looking for true Lysmata boggessi or need help identifying your shrimp? Check our ID guide here or contact us for expert advice.