Sri Lanka Fan Shrimp

Atya scabra

Animalia›Arthropoda›Malacostraca›Decapoda›Atyidae

Sri Lanka Fan Shrimp are large, robust freshwater shrimp known for their distinctive fan-like feeding appendages and mottled brown-gray coloration with subtle banding patterns. These impressive filter-feeders use their specialized antennae to capture food particles from the water column, making them visually unique and behaviorally fascinating. Their size and peaceful demeanor make them excellent centerpiece shrimp for established aquariums.

Where it's from

Native to Angola, Brazil, Cape Verde, Liberia and Mexico

At a glance

Size: 2 in; 5 cm
Min tank: 20 gal; 76 L
Temp: 72–79°F; 22–26°C
pH: 6.5-7.5
GH: 107–214 ppm; 6–12 dGH
Temperament: Peaceful
Swims: Bottom
Lifespan: 3-4 yrs

Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.

Care

Diet

Sri Lanka Fan Shrimp are primarily filter-feeders that consume biofilm, suspended algae, and organic detritus. Supplement with high-quality shrimp pellets (Shirakura, Mosura), blanched vegetables (spinach, zucchini), and occasional protein sources like dried spirulina. Ensure adequate water flow to support their natural feeding behavior.

Behavior

These shrimp are mostly sedentary, positioning themselves in areas of moderate water flow where they fan their antennae to capture food particles. They are nocturnal grazers and spend daylight hours hidden among plants and décor. They are generally solitary or found in small loose groups and do not exhibit aggressive territorial behavior.

Breeding

Sri Lanka Fan Shrimp are difficult to breed in captivity and require specific conditions including stable water parameters and excellent water quality. Females produce small batches of larvae that require specialized rearing conditions with proper food availability. Most specimens in the hobby are wild-caught, making successful captive breeding rare.

Tank mates

See all 5

Otocinclus

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

excellent

Ember Tetra

Tiny, peaceful fish that occupy mid-water column and do not prey on shrimp

excellent

Chili Rasbora

Nano fish that are too small to threaten shrimp and prefer similar gentle conditions

excellent

Amano Shrimp

Compatible with Fan Shrimp; may compete for food but generally coexist peacefully

good

Ghost Shrimp

Similar size and peaceful nature; may occasionally compete for food resources

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. Native range: Catálogo Taxonômico da Fauna do Brasil (CC BY 4.0).