We recently lost our ancient cleaner shrimp, Phobos, who lived a long and happy life as an efficient “janitor of the reef” … and also, a serial killer.
After his original companion, Deimos, died of old age, we tried to introduce other skunk shrimp to the tank to keep Phobos company.
He killed them and ate them.
Ironically, Phobos had no issues with other species. He never bothered the peppermint shrimp and seemed terrified of our fire shrimp, Spot.
Still, we decided that Phobos would live out his golden years “alone” where other skunk shrimp were concerned. (Phobos did not care, except to the extent he missed the snacks.)
About a week ago, Phobos died in the night. We were unable to bury him because, by morning, nothing remained TO bury. (This seemed an ironically fitting end, considering that it was most likely the other shrimp who ate him.)
Yesterday I went to the fish store and brought home a pair of skunk cleaner shrimp. I’ve named them Phobos and Deimos II. They’ve already taken up residence on the very same rock their predecessors claimed, and spend most of their time hanging upside-down in the cave.
The original Phobos would be proud.
I’m so naïve when it comes to the animal world. I know big fish eat little fish but I just never realize it actually happens. First the shrimp eat crab video shattered my world. And now shrimp eats play mates and then dies and gets eaten. Way too much for my brain to comprehend.
Hi Susan,
Are you accepting new clients? If so, can you please tell me how to contact you? Thanks!