Kuekenthal's Cleaner Shrimp *Aiptasia Eater*

Lysmata kuekenthali, commonly known as Kuekenthal's Cleaner Shrimp, is a species of cleaner shrimp found in marine environments, particularly in the tropical waters of the western Atlantic Ocean. Like other cleaner shrimp, Lysmata kuekenthali plays a mutualistic role in cleaning other marine organisms, including fish, by removing parasites and dead skin or tissue. This cleaning behavior benefits both the cleaner shrimp and their clients.

Here are some key characteristics and information about Lysmata kuekenthali:

Appearance: These shrimp typically have a semi-transparent body with distinctive white bands and white antennae. They may have red or orange spots and stripes on their bodies.

Behavior: Lysmata kuekenthali establish cleaning stations on coral reefs or other suitable substrates. Fish and other marine organisms visit these cleaning stations to have parasites and debris removed. In return, the shrimp get a meal from the parasites they remove.

Range: They are primarily found in the western Atlantic Ocean, including the Caribbean Sea, Florida, the Gulf of Mexico, and surrounding regions.

Habitat: Kuekenthal's Cleaner Shrimp are commonly found in coral reef environments, where they can hide among coral branches and crevices.