This Emperor Shrimp's Colors Are So Astounding (4 Photos)

The emperor shrimp is a small commensal shrimp, about a 3/4-inch in length. It's an interesting creature that forms symbiotic relationships in order to maximize its chance of survival. This species of shrimp can also be kept in a home aquarium but is not a great choice for beginner aquarium-keepers.

The emperor shrimp is both a carnivore and a detritivore, so it eats a range of different foods. In the wild, it eats parasites from its host, in addition to algae and detritus from the substrate, and any small meaty foods that come along, such as smaller shrimp or fry. In captivity, they will eat fish flakes, brine shrimp, pellet foods and other small live or frozen prey. You just have to make sure some food reaches the substrate, where they will pick it up.