Blue Pincher Macro

Macrobrachium vollenhovenii

Also known as West African Giant Prawn

Animalia›Arthropoda›Malacostraca›Decapoda›Palaemonidae

Macrobrachium vollenhovenii, commonly called the Blue Pincher Macro, is a large freshwater shrimp prized for its striking blue coloration and impressive size. These aggressive omnivores require spacious tanks and are best kept singly or in small groups with careful monitoring. They are fascinating but demanding inhabitants suited to experienced aquarists.

At a glance

Size: 5.9 in; 15 cm
Min tank: 40 gal; 151 L
Temp: 72–79°F; 22–26°C
pH: 6.5-7.5
GH: 107–268 ppm; 6–15 dGH
Temperament: Aggressive
Swims: Bottom
Lifespan: 3-5 yrs

Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.

Care

Diet

Blue Pincher Macros are opportunistic omnivores that consume biofilm, algae, detritus, and small invertebrates. Offer sinking pellets, blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach), and occasional protein sources like bloodworms or small crustaceans. Feed 2-3 times weekly, removing uneaten food within 24 hours.

Behavior

These large, territorial shrimp are highly aggressive and will attack or consume smaller tank mates and even conspecifics. They are primarily nocturnal and spend much of their time foraging along the substrate and in crevices. Males are particularly combative and should be housed individually or with extreme caution.

Breeding

Breeding in freshwater is extremely difficult and rarely achieved in home aquaria. Females produce eggs that typically require brackish water conditions for larvae to develop successfully. Most wild-caught specimens are imported as adults, making captive breeding impractical for most hobbyists.

Tank mates

See all 5

Bristlenose Pleco

May be attacked or consumed; only suitable in very large tanks with ample hiding

caution

Otocinclus

Too small; will be predated upon by aggressive macros

caution

Anubias Nana

Hardy plant for decoration and biofilm growth; shrimp will not destroy it

good

Java Moss

Provides biofilm, cover, and foraging substrate without being harmed

good

Marimo Moss Ball

Inert decoration that provides biofilm and does not interact with shrimp

good

No state or federal restrictions on record.

Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and change over time; check with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping or shipping it.

The care information here is written with AI help, so it can contain mistakes. Spot one? Tell us and we'll fix it.