Will a big Pistol Shrimp harm little Shrimp Gobies?

[ghomola]

I have an opportunity to buy what they call a "Tiger Pistol Shrimp" (alpheus bellulus?). The body shape and actions appear similar to other Alpheus species. They also have several Hi Fin Shrimp gobies. I'd like to try a pair.

However, here's my dilemma:
The pistol shrimp is twice the length and much thicker than the shrimp goby. The goby is about 1" long and very slim while the shrimp is about 2" long + antannae and 1" wide w/ legs. The shrimp dwarfs the gobies!!!

What do you think, should I put them together??? I don't want anyone getting hurt!

Thanks, Gary

 

[Anonymous]

How big's the tank?

 

[ghomola]

58 gallon Oceanic - 36" x 20"? x 18"?

 

[The_Big_Fish]

Wont harm it at all.
The tiger pistol shrimp is actualy known as a symbiosis shrimp.
This means it forms a symbionic relationship with the goby.
The goby, (having better eyesight), warns the shrimp of predators, and the shrimp shares its food with the goby.
Size dosent matter in this case.
How they interact with eachother (not talking about violence ) may matter upon species of the goby. Some species known topair with them are: Amblyeleotris and Stonogobiops.
I am sure there are more.
Hope this helps.

 

[Rlumenator]

They'll be fine, and a joy to watch!

 

[ghomola]

Thanks, The Big Fish and Dawn!

 

[The_Big_Fish]

No problem!