Stenopus hispidus
Encounter Rate
Spotting Difficulty
Best Season
Year-round
Depth Range
1-35 meters
The banded boxer shrimp, also known as the banded coral shrimp, is one of the most recognisable and commonly encountered crustaceans on Komodo's reefs, found peering out from reef crevices and overhangs with its long white antennae waving gently in the current. This striking shrimp features bold bands of red and white on its body and claws, with exceptionally long white antennae that can extend many times its body length. Reaching about 6 centimetres in body length, boxer shrimp operate cleaning stations similar to cleaner wrasses — they wave their antennae to advertise their services and then pick parasites and dead tissue from client fish that present themselves for grooming. In Komodo, banded boxer shrimp are found at most reef sites, typically in pairs occupying a crevice or small cave that serves as both their home and their cleaning station. They are monogamous and highly territorial, defending their chosen crevice vigorously against other boxer shrimp. The long, waving antennae emerging from dark crevices are often the first sign of their presence, beckoning divers to peer inside for a closer look at one of the reef's most elegantly attired inhabitants.
Average Size
4-5cm body length
Size Range
2-6cm body length
Maximum Size
6cm body length, antennae up to 15cm
Operates cleaning stations, feeding on parasites, dead skin, and mucous removed from client fish. Also scavenges small pieces of food and organic detritus.
The banded boxer shrimp, also known as the banded coral shrimp, is one of the most recognisable and commonly encountered crustaceans on Komodo's reefs, found peering out from reef crevices and overhangs with its long white antennae waving gently in the current. This striking shrimp features bold bands of red and white on its body and claws, with exceptionally long white antennae that can extend many times its body length. Reaching about 6 centimetres in body length, boxer shrimp operate cleaning stations similar to cleaner wrasses — they wave their antennae to advertise their services and then pick parasites and dead tissue from client fish that present themselves for grooming. In Komodo, banded boxer shrimp are found at most reef sites, typically in pairs occupying a crevice or small cave that serves as both their home and their cleaning station. They are monogamous and highly territorial, defending their chosen crevice vigorously against other boxer shrimp. The long, waving antennae emerging from dark crevices are often the first sign of their presence, beckoning divers to peer inside for a closer look at one of the reef's most elegantly attired inhabitants.
This species plays an important role in the marine ecosystem of Komodo National Park. Responsible diving practices help protect these animals and their habitat for future generations.
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They are found at virtually every reef site in the park, usually in crevices and under overhangs. Look for the characteristic long white antennae waving from a dark gap in the reef — they are advertising their cleaning station.
