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Bamboo Shrimp

Bamboo Shrimp

Posted by Max Gandara on on 28th May 2025

Bamboo Shrimp: The Gentle Filter-Feeding Marvel of Freshwater Aquariums

If you’re looking for a fascinating, peaceful, and useful invertebrate to add to your freshwater aquarium, the Bamboo Shrimp (Atyopsis moluccensis) is an excellent choice. These charismatic shrimps are not just beautiful but also serve as natural water cleaners, using their unique fan-like claws to filter tiny particles from the water.

Let’s explore what makes the Bamboo Shrimp such a popular and interesting addition to freshwater tanks!

What is a Bamboo Shrimp?

Native to Southeast Asia, Bamboo Shrimp—also known as Wood Shrimp or Singapore Flower Shrimp—are large, freshwater shrimp that grow up to 2.5 to 3 inches long. Their name comes from the bamboo-like bands on their legs and body, and their distinctive “fans” (modified front legs) that they use for filter feeding.

Unlike many shrimp that scavenge the bottom, Bamboo Shrimp are filter feeders, meaning they catch food particles floating in the water column. This makes them unique and captivating to watch as they hold their fan claws open in the current, waiting to catch drifting food.

Appearance and Behavior

  • Coloration: Bamboo Shrimp are typically brown or tan with mottled patterns and distinctive stripes on their legs.

  • Fans: Their large, feathery fan claws are usually spread wide while feeding and fold back when resting or moving.

  • Behavior: Peaceful and slow-moving, they spend much of their time attached to rocks, driftwood, or aquarium glass, filtering food from the water.

  • Nocturnal Activity: They are most active during the evening but can be observed throughout the day.

Tank Setup and Care

To keep your Bamboo Shrimp happy and healthy, providing the right environment is key:

  • Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons. Larger tanks with good water flow are ideal to ensure sufficient food particles in the water.

  • Water Parameters: Temperature 72–82°F (22–28°C), pH 6.5–7.5, soft to moderately hard water.

  • Water Flow: Moderate current is essential, as Bamboo Shrimp rely on flowing water to bring food to their fans. Position them near filter outlets or areas with gentle flow.

  • Substrate and Decor: Sand or fine gravel substrate with plenty of hiding spots like plants, rocks, or driftwood.

  • Tankmates: Compatible with peaceful community fish and other invertebrates. Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species.

Feeding Your Bamboo Shrimp

Though filter feeders, Bamboo Shrimp still need a nutrient-rich environment or supplementary feeding:

  • Provide finely powdered foods like crushed flakes, powdered shrimp pellets, or specialized filter feeder foods.

  • Adding liquid foods or infusoria can help ensure a constant supply of microscopic particles.

  • Avoid overfeeding; good water quality is essential for their health.

Breeding Bamboo Shrimp

Breeding Bamboo Shrimp in home aquariums is challenging because their larvae require brackish water conditions. Most hobbyists keep them as ornamental filter feeders rather than breeding them.

Troubleshooting and Tips

  • If your shrimp stay inactive or lose their fans, check water quality and ensure adequate food supply.

  • Maintain excellent water quality with regular water changes.

  • Avoid sudden changes in water parameters; these shrimp are sensitive to ammonia and nitrites.

Why Add Bamboo Shrimp to Your Aquarium?

  • Unique and fascinating filter feeders with interesting behavior.

  • Help improve water quality by filtering out suspended particles.

  • Peaceful and compatible with a variety of community tank setups.

  • Add a touch of natural elegance and diversity to your aquarium ecosystem.

Ready to welcome a Bamboo Shrimp into your tank? Ensure you have the right tank setup and enjoy watching this gentle marvel filter its way through your underwater world!