Maximum size - 2.5 inches.

Shrimp are gregarious by nature and enjoy being part of a group. Shrimp which are kept alone are often shy, reclusive and lack bight colours. 

Most shrimp are small, vunerable creatures which cannot be kept with larger aggressive tankmates. For these reasons avoid keeping shrimp with large or aggressive fish, crabs, crayfish, pufferfish and loaches (sucking loaches are fine.) 

As a general rule you can keep different species of shrimp in the same aquarium, but only if they are of similar size and temperament (see list below)

Peaceful shrimps (can be housed together)

• Cherry Shrimp
• Neon Blue Shrimp
• Striped Algae Shrimp
• Bamboo Fan Shrimp
• Giant Fan Shrimp
• Ring hand Clawed Shrimp 

Larger & more agressive shrimps (advisable to house species separately)

• Other Species of Clawed Shrimp.

Water Quality

The water conditions for shrimp are similar to any other freshwater invertebrate. Shrimp will not tolerate prolonged periods in water that has high levels of ammonia or nitrite. For these reasons, shrimp are best added to established aquaria of no less than 6 months old.

Aquarium Environment

Shrimps are naturally shy creatures and enjoy cover provided by live or artificial plants. They also feel more secure if there is a shaded nook or cranny they can escape into if they are frightened. Bogwood or driftwood can often make a suitable shelter for this purpose. 

Temperature & pH

The temperature range for tropical shrimps is between 20-28 Degrees Celcius, with a preferred temperature of 24. To prevent exoskeleton erosion, the pH of the water should be above 7.0 and no higher than 8.0.

Feeding

Shrimp should be fed a varied diet, with both meat and plant based foods. The mixed premium pellet selection is a great way to give a varied and balanced diet to your shrimp. They also relish the premium algae pellets.

Shrimp should be given a regular calcium supplement to ensure healthy and strong exoskeleton growth. SnailStrong Liquid Calcium will ensure your shrimp will receive enough of this mineral in the aquarium.

Did you know?

• Shrimp will shed their exoskeleton as they grow - it is common to mistake a shed skin for a dead shrimp! Shrimp will often eat their old skin to replenish lost minerals.
• Shrimp can change their body colour according to their mood.  Stressed shrimp often loose their colour after transportation only to regain it after several hours or days later.
• Fan Shrimp like to position themselves in water currents for feeding.  They can be often seen waving their fan shaped claws in front of powerheads and filter outlets.