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Golden Banded Shrimp

Golden Banded Shrimp

Origin

Indo-Pacific

Habitat Size

50-150 Liters

Water Type

Salt Water

Water Temperature

22º-26ºC

Cost in India

₹80 - ₹150

Size

2 - 4 inches (Small)

Diet

Omnivore

A vibrant orange yellow golden banded shrimp with long claws rests on white and green substrate
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by Happy Pet TeamUpdated on 15 Oct 2025

The Golden banded shrimp (also known as Gold Coral Banded Shrimp, Gold Banded Coral Shrimp) belongs to the family Stenopodidae. It is known for the vivid yellow body covered with red-and-white banding with long white chelae (claws) and a vibrant antennae. The shrimp is loved and adored by aquarists.

The Golden shrimp is native to parts of the Indo-Pacific and Caribbean, often found associated with rock crevices or reef habitats where it can hide during the day and forage at night.

What is the size of the Banded Golden Shrimp?

The Golden Banded Shrimp size of a fully matured adult is ~2 to 3 inches (5-7 cm). It can reach up to ~4 inches (10 cm) under special climatic conditions.

How long do Banded Golden Shrimp live?

The ideal Golden Banded Shrimp lifespan is 2 to 3 years. Sometimes they can live up to 5 years as well with a good habitat.

Looking for Golden Banded Shrimp?

You can find this species at aquarium stores or online, with costs ranging from ₹350 to ₹600.

Compatible tank mates of Golden Banded Shrimp:

  1. Peaceful fish species
  2. small reef fish
  3. Tangs
  4. Gobies
  5. Clownfish
  6. Other invertebrates

Avoid pairing with:

  1. Predatory fish like eels, large groupers, triggers, & lionfish
  2. Fish that eat crustaceans
  3. Other Golden Banded Shrimp

Characteristics

Temperament

Aggressive

Friendly

Compatibility with other fishes

Not Friendly

Super Friendly

Habitat Size

Small

Large

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Banded Golden Shrimp Habitat Requirement

Initial Setup Cost

₹4,000 - ₹12,000

Water Temperature

22º -26ºC

Water Type

Salt Water

PH Level

8.1 - 8.4

Golden Shrimps tend to live longer if all their habitat criteria are met. They thrive well and add a visual delight to the aquarium. Below are some habitat requirements that must be fulfilled to help Gold Banded shrimp live peacefully.

Parameter

Details

Minimum Tank Size

~20-30 gallons (~75-115 litres) for a single shrimp

Temperature

~72-80 °F (22-27 °C)

pH

~8.1 - 8.4 in marine tanks

Hardness / Alkalinity

- Moderate to high

- Reef-buffered marine conditions to avoid fluctuations

Decor & Shelter

- Plenty of hiding places:- Crevices, overhangs, caves, live rock to mimic their natural reef habitat.

Essential Equipment

Aquarium tank

Water filter

Heater

Light

Substrate

Decor

Diet & feeding Guidelines for the Golden Banded Shrimp

Avg Monthly Expenses

₹80 - ₹ 150

Feed the Golden banded shrimp the below given food for long and healthy living.

  1. Meaty/ Protein Foods - Frozen or live foods such as small pieces of fish, squid, shellfish, & brine shrimp.
  2. Scavenged - Food scraps or decayed tissue, biofilm, or algae when available
  3. Supplemental Foods - High-quality frozen, flake, or pellet foods safe for reef inverts. Be cautious of copper content.
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Health

Common Health Issues

White spot / ick

Bacterial infections

Parasitic infections

Fungal infections

Columnaris (cotton wool-like growth on the skin)

Ammonia poisoning

Signs of good health

Active

Bright coloration

Good apetite

Signs of sickness

Dull coloring

Frequent hiding

Reduced activity

White film

White growths

Some of the health challenges they might face are.

Problem

Description

Molting Issues

Caused by water quality fluctuations (pH, salinity). Make sure to keep the water quality in check.

Injury / Limb Loss

Often occurs due to territorial fights. Make sure to pair the shrimp with compatible tank mates.

Predation/ Stress

Aggressive fish like triggers and lionfish may injure or kill shrimp.

Starvation

They may lose food to faster tankmates as they are slow feeders. So, facilitate targeted feeding for them.

Prerequisites for a Fish

Adequate tank space

Cleanliness

Enriching Environment

Effort & commitment

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Written by

Happy Pet Team

Author

Team Happy Pet is a passionate collective of pet experts, enthusiasts, and advocates dedicated to sharing trusted and insightful content.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How large will a Golden Banded Shrimp grow?

Typically ~2-3 inches (5-7 cm), occasionally up to ~4 inches (10 cm).

How long do they live?

Life expectancy is around 2-3 years in aquariums under proper care. Some live up to 5 years.

Can I keep more than one Golden Banded Shrimp together?

Only if the tank is very large. Otherwise, they tend to fight over territory.

Is the Golden Banded Shrimp reef safe?

Mostly yes, but they may nip at soft corals, anemones, or steal food intended for other reef animals if underfed.

What water parameters are essential?

Stable marine parameters such as temperature ~72-80°F, pH around 8.1-8.4, and moderate to high hardness help maintain health.