• Scientific Name : Hymenocera Elegans, Hymenocera Picta
• Origin : Indo-Pacific, Hawaii
• Difficulty : Fairly Tough (Due to Diet)
• Minimum Size Tank : 10 Gallons
• Temperament : Peaceful
• Temperature : 72 - 82°F
• Reef Safe : Yes
• Maximum Size : 4-5cm
• Diet : Starfishes Only

There are two known species of harlequin shrimp, hymenocera picta and hymenocera elegans. They differ only in where they are found. H.picta hails from Hawaii while H.elegans is found throughout the Indo-Pacific.

The Harlequin Shrimp was first scientifically described in 1852. Around the Pacific Ocean, many of these shrimp will have red spots while the Indian Ocean shrimp typically have purple spots and the males are slightly smaller than the females. It differs from its close cousin, the HawaiianH. picta which has purple and red spots. It has large claws (chelipeds) which are for show only; it does not use them for hunting.

The Harlequin Shrimp is best kept as mated pairs in an aquarium with moderate light. The Harlequin Shrimp cannot tolerate copper or high nitrates, and iodine levels must be correct and maintained to ensure proper malting.

Often used to control nuisance Asterina stars in a reef as the Harlequin shrimp's only source of nutrition comes from starfish.