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Bamboo Shrimp
Atyopsis moluccensis
Animalia›Arthropoda›Malacostraca›Decapoda›Atyidae
📍 Southeast Asia & Sri Lanka
Bamboo shrimp (wood shrimp) are large, striking filter-feeding shrimp that fan tiny food particles from the water current. They require good water flow and consistent, fine suspended food (like powdered spirulina). Do not keep with aggressive tankmates.
Care Guide
Diet
Bamboo shrimp are obligate filter feeders that require constant fine suspended particles in the water column. Feed powdered spirulina, phytoplankton, liquid fry food, or specialized filter-feeder supplements once daily in small amounts. Supplement with occasional blanched vegetables like zucchini, though they derive most nutrition from suspended microorganisms and biofilm.
Behavior
These peaceful, sedentary shrimp spend most of their time anchored to rocks or plants with their fan-like claws extended into the water current, filtering food particles. They are nocturnal and most active during low-light periods, remaining relatively stationary during the day. They do not compete well with aggressive or fast-moving fish and may starve if unable to access adequate food.
Breeding
Breeding bamboo shrimp in captivity is extremely difficult and rarely successful in home aquariums. Females produce larvae that require brackish water conditions to develop properly, making the process impractical for most hobbyists. Virtually all specimens in the aquarium trade are wild-caught.
Tank Mates
Peaceful algae eater with similar water requirements; won't compete for food or harass shrimp
Compatible filter-feeding shrimp; peaceful and share similar water parameters
Small, peaceful fish that won't prey on or outcompete bamboo shrimp for food
Peaceful, non-aggressive fish that occupy different feeding zones
Peaceful invertebrate that won't disturb shrimp or compete for suspended food particles
Common Diseases
Bacterial Infection
Discoloration, lesions on body or appendages, lethargy, loss of appetite
Improve water quality with frequent partial water changes; maintain pristine conditions; consider antibacterial medication if severe
Molting Problems
Inability to shed exoskeleton, stuck between old and new shell, death shortly after molting
Ensure adequate calcium and minerals in water; maintain stable water parameters; provide iodine-rich foods; avoid sudden parameter changes
Starvation
Gradual weight loss, lethargy, pale coloration, death
Increase feeding frequency and food particle size; ensure adequate water flow to deliver food to shrimp; consider adding liquid phytoplankton or fry food daily
Parasitic Infection
Visible spots or growths on body, excessive grooming behavior, lethargy
Quarantine affected shrimp; perform water changes; treat with appropriate parasite medication; maintain excellent water quality
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Quick Facts
- diet
- Filter feeder – fine suspended particles, spirulina powder, phytoplankton
- lifespan
- 1–2 years
- max size
- 7–8 cm (2.8–3.2 in)
- tank size
- 20 gallons minimum
- temperament
- Very peaceful; do not compete well for food
Water it likes
- ph
- 6.5–7.5
- ammonia
- 0 ppm
- nitrate
- <15 ppm
- hardness
- 5–15 dGH
- temperature
- 72–82°F (22–28°C)