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Malaya Shrimp
Caridina malayensis
Also known as Malaya Filter Shrimp, Malayan Shrimp
Animalia›Arthropoda›Malacostraca›Decapoda›Atyidae
Malaya Shrimp are small, hardy freshwater shrimp with a translucent to brownish body coloration and subtle striping patterns. They are excellent algae grazers and detritivores, making them valuable for planted tank maintenance. These shrimp are relatively undemanding compared to other Caridina species, though they still prefer slightly acidic, soft water conditions.
At a glance
- Size
- 1.2 in
- 3 cm
- Min tank
- 5 gal
- 19 L
- Group
- 10+
- Temp
- 72–79°F
- 22–26°C
- pH
- 6.0-7.0
- GH
- 71–143 ppm
- 4–8 dGH
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Swims
- Bottom
- Lifespan
- 2-3 yrs
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
Care
Diet
Malaya Shrimp are primarily detritivores that graze on biofilm, algae, and decaying plant matter. Supplement with quality shrimp pellets (Shirakura, Mosura) 2-3 times weekly and occasional blanched vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or cucumber. Ensure adequate leaf litter and driftwood for natural grazing surfaces.
Behavior
Malaya Shrimp are active grazers that spend most of their time foraging on substrate and hardscape. They are social and do well in groups, exhibiting natural colony dynamics. Molting occurs regularly; provide plenty of hiding spots and mineral-rich water to support successful molts.
Breeding
Malaya Shrimp breed readily in established tanks with stable, slightly acidic soft water (pH 6.0-7.0, GH 4-8). Females produce small broods of fully-formed shrimplets (no larval stage), which are released directly into the water column. Breeding success improves with good water quality and abundant food sources.
Tank mates
See all 6Small, peaceful algae eater; shares similar water parameters and grazing behavior
Tiny, non-aggressive fish that will not prey on adult shrimp
Very small, peaceful schooling fish; minimal predation risk
Larger shrimp species; generally compatible though may compete for food
Provides shelter, biofilm growth, and natural grazing surface
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Common diseases 4Molting Failure / Incomplete Molt, Bacterial Infection / Muscular Necrosis, Vorticella / Protozoan Infection, Copper Toxicity
Molting Failure / Incomplete Molt
Shrimp unable to fully shed exoskeleton; partial molt with body stuck in old shell; lethargy and reduced feeding
Increase mineral content via GH booster or mineral supplements; ensure adequate calcium and magnesium; maintain stable water parameters; provide soft plants and moss for assistance during molt
Bacterial Infection / Muscular Necrosis
White or opaque patches on body or appendages; discoloration; lethargy; loss of appetite; death within days if untreated
Perform 30% water change; increase aeration; add Indian almond leaves or tannins to acidify and sterilize water; maintain pristine water quality; isolate affected individuals if possible; avoid copper-based treatments
Vorticella / Protozoan Infection
Cloudy or fuzzy white coating on body and antennae; reduced movement; difficulty molting; shrimp appear to be covered in dust
Increase water changes (25-30% daily); add salt-free mineral supplements; improve water flow and oxygenation; use Indian almond leaves or catappa leaves for tannins; maintain optimal pH and GH; avoid copper treatments
Copper Toxicity
Sudden death or lethargy; discoloration; loss of appetite; erratic swimming behavior
Perform immediate large water change (50%+); use copper-free medications and fertilizers; check all tank additives for copper content; use RO water if tap water is copper-contaminated; maintain water quality to reduce stress
Legality
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.
At a glance
- Size
- 1.2 in3 cm
- Min tank
- 5 gal19 L
- Group
- 10+
- Temp
- 72–79°F22–26°C
- pH
- 6.0-7.0
- GH
- 71–143 ppm4–8 dGH
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Swims
- Bottom
- Lifespan
- 2-3 yrs
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
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