Identification of True Peppermint Shrimp
Why Most “Peppermint Shrimp” Don’t Work
The term “peppermint shrimp” is often misused in the aquarium trade. It refers broadly to several similar-looking species within the Lysmata genus — but only one species, Lysmata boggessi, has been scientifically demonstrated to control Aiptasia anemones effectively.
Most shrimp sold as “peppermint shrimp” are either Lysmata wurdemanni, L. ankeri, or even completely different genera like Rhynchocinetes (camel shrimp), all of which have been shown to behave unpredictably or harm corals in reef tanks.
The Science Behind Boggessi
In peer-reviewed trials by Rhyne et al. (2004), Lysmata boggessi showed consistent feeding on Aiptasia — even in the presence of alternative food. Misidentified shrimp, by contrast, were either disinterested or actively damaging to corals.
- Taxonomically described in 2006 after genetic clarification of the species complex.
- Consistent Aiptasia control verified under controlled conditions.
- Low aggression and reef-safe when properly identified.
Species Comparison Table
| Species | Aiptasia Control | Reef-Safe Behaviour | Risk of Misidentification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lysmata boggessi | Proven | High | Low |
| Lysmata ankeri | Inconsistent | Moderate | High |
| Lysmata wurdemanni | Presumed | Variable | Very High |
| Rhynchocinetes spp. (Camel Shrimp) | None | Can nip corals | Extreme |
Backed by Observation and Experience
Our Lysmata boggessi shrimp are not just scientifically accurate — they’re proven in real reef tanks. Every shrimp is bred in-house and selected for size, health, and feeding response.
- Filmed actively eating Aiptasia in real tanks
- Endorsed by local fish shops after clearing their own infestations
- Never imported — always captive-bred and correctly identified
Watch our boggessi shrimp in action
What Reefkeepers Are Saying
“I tried peppermint shrimp before — they ignored the Aiptasia. Once I got boggessi, the difference was immediate.”
“They cleared my rockwork in days. Easily the most reliable natural solution I’ve tried.”
“Don’t gamble with imports — boggessi just works.”
— Paraphrased from UK reefing community feedback
Our Position: Why We Supply Lysmata boggessi
Lysmata boggessi is the most thoroughly studied peppermint shrimp species in scientific trials focused on biological control of Aiptasia anemones. Across multiple peer-reviewed experiments, it has demonstrated consistent, repeatable results when:
• Properly identified and not confused with similar-looking species
• Provided minimal access to alternative foods
• Kept in stable, predator-free aquarium conditions
• Introduced at a suitable life stage (mature individuals are more effective)
While other species such as L. ankeri have also shown potential in controlled settings, L. boggessiremains the most rigorously tested and most consistently reliable species under captive conditions. Its feeding behaviour, response time, and overall success in managing Aiptasia have been documented in formal studies, making it the scientifically supported choice for reefkeepers seeking a natural solution.
We supply only verified Lysmata boggessi — with full confidence in its identity, consistency, and performance. This commitment to correct species identification is a key reason our customers experience dependable results where others may not.