(47) Bamboo shrimp (Caridina pack of 10)

Bamboo shrimp (Atyopsis moluccensis and Atyopsis spinipes), also known as wood shrimp or flower shrimp, are a unique species of freshwater invertebrate native to fast-flowing streams in Southeast Asia. They are prized for their fascinating filter-feeding behavior, using fan-like appendages to catch food particles from the water.

• Distinctive fans: The most notable feature of bamboo shrimp are the specialized, fan-like appendages on their front legs, which they use as mini-nets to filter food from the current.
• Size: They are one of the larger freshwater shrimp species, typically growing to a size of 2 to 3.5 inches.
• Coloration: Their color can vary depending on their environment and mood, from reddish-brown or tan to a vibrant red, blue, or creamy white. They often feature a light-colored stripe running along their back. 

• Water parameters: They are sensitive to water quality and need stable conditions within a standard tropical freshwater range.
  • Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C).
  • pH: 6.5–7.5.
  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water is suitable.
• Water flow: A moderate to strong current is essential for their feeding behavior. Position a powerhead or filter outlet in the tank to create an area where the shrimp can perch and fan-feed. If they are frequently scraping food off the substrate, it is a sign they are not getting enough from the water column.
• Tank size: A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended, especially for housing a group. A larger, more mature tank can provide the stable water conditions and detritus they need.
• Aquascaping: Include plenty of rocks, driftwood, and plants to provide perching spots and hiding places. Live plants also contribute to a healthy, detritus-rich environment. 

• Filter-feeding: Bamboo shrimp are filter feeders, not active scavengers. They use their fans to collect fine food particles floating in the water.
• Supplemental feeding: An established tank with good water flow will provide some detritus, but supplemental feeding is often necessary. Fine foods like spirulina powder, powdered shrimp food, or crushed flakes can be added to the current.
• Monitoring hunger: Watching their behavior is the best way to determine if they are well-fed. If they start foraging on the substrate with their fans, they are not catching enough food from the water column. 

• Difficult in captivity: Breeding bamboo shrimp in a home aquarium is very difficult. The larvae require brackish water to develop properly, while the adults need freshwater. For this reason, most specimens sold in the aquarium trade are wild-caught. 

• Peaceful community: Bamboo shrimp are peaceful and can be kept in a community tank with other non-aggressive, small-to-medium fish, such as tetras, danios, and rasboras.
• Other shrimp: They can coexist with other peaceful invertebrates like snails and dwarf shrimp (Caridina and Neocaridina species), as long as there is enough food to go around.