Cave Cleaner Shrimp

The Cave Cleaner Shrimp, scientifically known as Urocaridella pulchella, is a fascinating marine creature that thrives in the ocean depths ranging from 1 to 20 meters (approximately 3 to 66 feet). These small shrimp measure between 2.4 and 6 centimeters (about 0.9 to 2.4 inches) in length. Renowned for their cleaning abilities, they play a vital role in marine ecosystems by feeding on parasites such as copepods, isopods, and flukes that settle on fish, particularly favoring moray eels.

In addition to parasites, these shrimp also consume food remnants and oral mucus, which contribute to their diet. Remarkably, they often venture into the mouths and gill cavities of fish to perform their cleaning duties. Urocaridella pulchella is well-adapted to life in dimly lit cave environments, where it thrives successfully.

Visually striking, these shrimp possess a translucent body adorned with small red and white spots, along with a translucent rostrum featuring a longitudinal white line, making them not only functional but also an intriguing sight in their natural habitat.