Shrimp: Tiny housemates with big personality

Freshwater Aquarium Shrimp: A Touch of the Exotic

Freshwater aquarium shrimp are among the most exotic and beautiful creatures you can keep in an aquarium. Dwarf shrimp, in particular, have become incredibly popular in recent years. These beautiful creatures come in a wide array of colors and sizes, adding a new and fascinating dimension to any aquarium.

Why Shrimp?

• Aesthetic appeal: From fiery red Cherry Shrimp to deep blue Blue Velvet Shrimp, these crustaceans add a splash of color and vibrancy to any tank.
• Algae control: Many shrimp species are voracious algae eaters, helping to keep the aquarium clean and healthy.
• Peaceful nature: Shrimp are generally peaceful and won't bother your fish, making them ideal inhabitants for community tanks.
• Fascinating behavior: Watching shrimp graze, molt, and interact with their environment is incredibly entertaining.

Popular Shrimp Species

• Beginner-friendly: Neocaridina davidi, such as Cherry, Red Fire, and Blue Velvet Shrimp, are hardy, adaptable, and come in all sorts of colors. They are perfect for those new to shrimp keeping.
• Stunning Caridina: Caridina cantonensis, with their striking patterns and colors like Crystal Red and Black Bee Shrimp, are a bit more demanding in terms of water parameters but offer a visual treat for experienced aquarists.
• Efficient cleaners: Amano Shrimp are the workhorses of the shrimp world, known for their insatiable appetite for algae.
• Unique filter feeders: Bamboo Shrimp (like Atyopsis moluccensis) add another dimension to your aquarium by gracefully filtering food particles from the water flow.

Setting up a Shrimp Aquarium

• Tank size: Even a small tank (from 5 gallons) can house a colony of shrimp.
• Filtration: Choose a gentle filter to prevent shrimp from being sucked in.
• Substrate: Dark substrate will enhance the colors of the shrimp.
• Plants: Live plants provide shrimp with shelter, food, and a natural environment. Java moss and other mosses are particularly beneficial.
• Water parameters: Research the specific needs of your chosen shrimp species. Most prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH and soft to medium-hard water.

Shrimp Care

• Feeding: Shrimp are scavengers and will graze on algae, biofilm, and leftover fish food. Supplement their diet with shrimp-specific food and blanched vegetables.
• Water changes: Regular water changes are essential for maintaining water quality.
• Avoid copper: Copper is toxic to shrimp. Be cautious when using medications containing copper.

Breeding

Many shrimp species readily breed in the home aquarium. You'll often see females carrying eggs under their tails. Provide a suitable environment with plenty of hiding places for young shrimplets.

Tank Mates

If you must choose tank mates for your freshwater shrimp, opt for peaceful and calm fish species such as Rasboras, Tetras, Livebearers, etc.

Final Thoughts

Do your research to determine which shrimp species will thrive in your aquarium. The type and setup of your freshwater aquarium will dictate which shrimp species is right for you. Or, prepare your aquarium according to the shrimp species you have chosen.

With a little care and attention, freshwater shrimp can thrive in your aquarium, adding beauty, interest, and a touch of the exotic to your underwater world.

Source: Brown, April K. Freshwater Shrimp Aquarium: A guide for setting up and maintaining shrimp aquarium for beginners. Kindle Edition, 2020.