Peppermint Shrimp and Goby

Discussion in 'New To The Hobby' started by SaltwaterNoob17, Jul 5, 2009.

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  1. SaltwaterNoob17

    SaltwaterNoob17 Plankton

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    I bought a peppermint shrimp a few weeks ago, and a few days ago I bought a yellow watchman goby. They seem to be getting along okay, but when I feed the goby (I'm feeding him brine and mysis shrimp), my peppermint shrimp comes out from his cave in the live rock, climbs onto the goby's back, and appears to "dance" on the goby's back for about 20 seconds. The goby seems a tad bit irritated, but he doesn't try to get away from the shrimp. Is the shrimp cleaning him? Is the shrimp upset that I'm feeding the goby shrimp? Should I be concerned?
     
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  3. mikejrice

    mikejrice 3reef Affiliate

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    My peppermint and watchmen act pretty strange together too. Watchmen are known for forming a symbiotic relationship with pistol shrimp I think it might work with a peppermint too from what Iv seen.
     
  4. SaltwaterNoob17

    SaltwaterNoob17 Plankton

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    Okay, good. That makes me feel better...
     
  5. Phayes

    Phayes Aiptasia Anemone

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    most gobies have this relationship trait with pistol shrimp. Since pistol shrimp are blind- they will actually use the gobie as their set of eyes, and in return they receive the protection of the shrimp. One of the very spectacular symbiotic relationships of our hobby.
    However, not too sure how it all works out with peppermint shrimp!
     
  6. McSiD

    McSiD Plankton

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    That's too funny. :)