Bamboo Shrimp

Looks how to spot one

Exoskeleton (filter-feeding freshwater shrimp)

A sturdy shrimp whose front legs end in feathery fans instead of pincers. Colour ranges from light to dark brown or reddish brown, often with a pale line down the back.13

Personality what they are like

A gentle, peaceful shrimp that perches in the current with its fans open, catching drifting food. It ignores tank mates.31

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Mostly stays put in a good feeding spot, moving around the tank to find the best current.3

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Needs a steady supply of fine suspended food. If you see it picking at the substrate instead of fanning, it may be looking for more food.12

Home where they are happiest

A tank of at least 10 US gallons (about 38 L), ideally 20 or more, with moderate flow and perches near the outflow; temperature 24-27 C (75-81 F) and pH 7.0-7.5. Hiding places help during moults.32

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Filter feeder that strains algae, plant particles and microorganisms from the water; powdered or fine foods can be added to the current.231

Company who they like around

Can be kept alone or in groups, with peaceful fish such as tetras, danios and gouramis, plus other shrimp and snails.3

The story where it all began

The species was placed in the genus Atyopsis when Chace set it up in 1983. Adults live in fast lowland streams, and their larvae are thought to drift down to brackish water before returning upstream.21

Recognised by the official bits

Taxonomy

Family Atyidae; the genus Atyopsis was set up by Fenner A. Chace Jr. in 1983 for species formerly in Atya.2

Taxonomy

Species name refers to the Moluccan Islands.1