Cameroon Fan Shrimp

Atya gabonensis

📍 West Africa (Cameroon, Gabon)

Cameroon Fan Shrimp are large, striking freshwater shrimp with distinctive fan-like appendages used for filter-feeding. They display a mottled brown to tan coloration with darker markings, and their prominent antennae and feeding fans make them highly recognizable. These shrimp are active foragers that spend much of their time positioned on rocks or driftwood, using their specialized appendages to capture food particles from the water column.

Size2"

Min Tank20g

peaceful

Zonebottom

Care Guide

Diet

Cameroon Fan Shrimp are specialized filter-feeders that consume biofilm, algae, and organic detritus from the water column using their fan-like appendages. Supplement with high-quality sinking shrimp pellets (Shirakura, Mosura), blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach), and occasional protein sources like dried spirulina. Feed small amounts 2-3 times weekly; they are efficient foragers and do not require heavy feeding.

Behavior

These shrimp are relatively sedentary, positioning themselves on rocks, driftwood, or plants where water flow is moderate to strong. They use their specialized feeding fans to filter particles from the water, making them fascinating to observe. They are generally solitary or found in small loose groups and are most active during low-light periods.

Breeding

Cameroon Fan Shrimp are difficult to breed in captivity and require specific conditions including stable water parameters (pH 6.5-7.5, moderate hardness). Females produce small clutches of large larvae that are released into the water column and are difficult to rear without specialized care. Breeding success is rare in home aquaria and requires patience and ideal conditions.

Tank Mates

Otocinclus

Small, peaceful algae-eater that shares similar water preferences and does not compete for food

excellent

Ember Tetra

Tiny, non-aggressive fish that occupy different water zones and pose no threat to shrimp

excellent

Chili Rasbora

Peaceful nano fish that will not predate on shrimp and thrive in similar conditions

excellent

Amano Shrimp

Compatible shrimp species with similar water requirements; may compete for food but generally coexist peacefully

good

Java Moss

Provides biofilm growth, shelter, and aesthetic appeal without competing with shrimp

excellent

Common Diseases

Molting Failure / Incomplete Molt

Symptoms

Shrimp unable to shed exoskeleton completely, stuck in old shell, lethargy, loss of appetite

Treatment

Ensure adequate mineral content via GH booster or mineral supplements; maintain stable water parameters; provide calcium-rich foods; increase water change frequency to reduce stress

Bacterial Infection / Shell Rot

Symptoms

Visible lesions, discoloration, or soft spots on shell; cloudy appearance; reduced activity

Treatment

Perform 25-30% water changes every 2-3 days; add Indian almond leaves or tannin-rich botanicals to lower pH slightly and boost immune response; ensure excellent water quality and remove any dead organic matter

Copper Toxicity

Symptoms

Lethargy, loss of appetite, discoloration, tremors, death

Treatment

Immediately perform large water changes (50%+); avoid all copper-based medications and fertilizers; use copper-free plant fertilizers; test water for copper contamination from external sources

Vorticella / Protozoan Infection

Symptoms

White fuzzy coating on body or appendages, reduced feeding, lethargy

Treatment

Increase water change frequency and improve water quality; add salt-free stress coat or Indian almond leaves; ensure adequate aeration; maintain stable temperature; severe cases may require isolation and observation