Pistol shrimp standoff...ready, aim, fire!

[postie]

I had posted earlier that a pistol shrimp had survived an awful tank I was dismantling. The only choice I had at the time was to acclimate him a bit and throw him in a 20-gallon I haven't torn down yet (I'm moving and will have everything in a larger tank). There was already one large pistol shrimp in the 20. The responses I got were "iffy" about their compatibility because of the small tank, but I was hoping they might keep the peace for just three more weeks until they are moved. Not to be.....

Yesterday, I saw the actual standoff....one shrimp is without his smaller claw, but that did not seem to hinder him in the battle. Sand was flying around the bottom of the tank, they charged each other, snapped and snapped....but this morning are hidden (or dead or something). These guys were out in broad daylight displaying their "do not get along well with others" attitudes!

So, now my own question has been answered...two pistol shrimp in a small tank promotes prize fighting! I may be moving the tank contents sooner than I expected!!!!

Thanks to everyone for responses....now we know. These guys will be going to a 55-gallon, providing there are still 2 then. That will help.

 

[Oceans Ferevh]

"This town ain't big enough for the both of us..."

 

[Anonymous]

some pistol shrimp will actually co-operate with each other, especially against mantis shrimps



(just a little fyi )

 

[Anonymous]

I have two different species of pistols in my 180, one of which is paired up with a pink speckled goby. I've had no problems. A 180 is a bit different than a 20, though.

 

[postie]

The smaller pistol shrimp's claw has already regrown and both are still living. I'm keeping them well fed, as a new algae problem would indicate...lol. Now there's just some chasing and popping, but both of them do stay out all hours of the day! We'll see who gets brave next. Thanks for responses....all are always welcomed.