Sexy Shrimp

Thor amboinensis, commonly referred to as the squat anemone shrimp or sexy shrimp, is a diminutive shrimp species prevalent in the Indo-West Pacific and parts of the Atlantic Ocean. This species exhibits a symbiotic relationship with corals, sea anemones, and other marine invertebrates within shallow reef ecosystems.

Thor amboinensis typically attains a length of approximately 13 millimeters (0.5 inches). It is characterized by an olive brown coloration adorned with symmetrically arranged white patches, each encircled by thin blue lines. Notably, this species holds its abdomen in a distinctive upward curve, positioning the tail fan above its head.

Despite its nomenclature referencing Ambon Island in 🇮🇩 Indonesia, Thor amboinensis boasts a pantropical distribution. It is indigenous to environments spanning the 🌊 Red Sea, 🌊 Indian Ocean, 🌊 Pacific Ocean, 🌊 Caribbean Sea, 🌊 Gulf of Mexico, Madeira, and the Canary Islands.

Thor amboinensis engages in a commensal relationship predominantly with shallow water sea anemones or mushroom corals. In 🇧🇲 Bermuda, frequent host species include the carpet anemone (Stichodactyla haddoni), the stinging anemone (Lebrunia danae), and the adhesive anemone (Cryptodendrum adhaesivum). This shrimp species often cohabits with multiple individuals among the host's tentacles, subsisting on tentacle tissue and trapped planktonic particles. In the 🇧🇸 Bahamas, Thor amboinensis is part of a diverse symbiotic community associated with the anemone Lebrunia danae, where each invertebrate occupies distinct regions of the host.

Female Thor amboinensis carry fertilized eggs beneath their abdomens until hatching. The zoea larvae undergo several developmental stages, responding to chemical and visual cues that guide them toward potential host anemones. Studies indicate larvae are generalists, showing adaptability to various anemone species, with a notable inclination towards the species from which their parent was collected.

In marine aquaria, Thor amboinensis is highly favored for its appeal and manageable size, making it suitable for nano reef tanks. These shrimps thrive in groups of three or more and will readily associate with available anemones or certain coral species if anemones are absent. In captivity, they scavenge for meaty food remnants such as mysis shrimp, clam, and other prepared fish foods. Presence of a host cnidarian may prompt them to feed on the host's mucus.