Wood Shrimp Atyopsis moluccensis Care Guide

The Wood Shrimp also known as Bamboo Shrimp or Fan Shrimp is a peaceful freshwater shrimp famous for its unique fan shaped claws used to filter food from the water. It is an excellent addition to mature aquariums with good water flow and is best suited for calm community tanks.

Appearance and Size
Wood Shrimp have a large robust body compared to most freshwater shrimp. Color can range from tan brown reddish brown to dark chocolate depending on environment and mood. They have distinctive fan like appendages instead of typical claws which they use to catch fine food particles. Adults usually grow to about 2 to 3 inches in length.

Natural Habitat and Behavior
This species is native to fast flowing streams and rivers in Southeast Asia. In the wild they perch on rocks or wood in areas with strong current where food particles pass by. They are peaceful shy and non aggressive. Wood Shrimp spend most of their time sitting in one spot filtering the water rather than scavenging the substrate.

Aquarium Requirements
A minimum tank size of 20 gallons is recommended though larger tanks provide better stability. The aquarium should have moderate to strong water flow in at least one area. Water temperature should be maintained between 72 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. pH should range from 6.5 to 7.5 with soft to moderately hard water.

Provide driftwood rocks and decorations positioned to create flow paths where the shrimp can sit and feed. The aquarium should be well established with stable water parameters and good filtration. Avoid sudden changes in water conditions.

Diet and Feeding
Wood Shrimp are filter feeders and require fine suspended food particles. They do not survive by eating leftover food from the substrate. Their diet should include powdered shrimp foods finely crushed flakes crushed algae wafers and occasional phytoplankton or baby shrimp food. Food can be gently dispersed into the water column near their feeding spots.

Tank Mates
Wood Shrimp are very peaceful and should be kept with non aggressive fish. Suitable tank mates include small to medium community fish such as tetras rasboras peaceful barbs and corydoras. Avoid aggressive fish crayfish and large cichlids. They are safe with other shrimp species.

Breeding
Breeding Wood Shrimp in freshwater aquariums is extremely difficult. They produce larvae that require brackish to marine conditions to develop. As a result successful breeding is rare and most individuals are wild caught.

General Care and Health
Wood Shrimp are sensitive to poor water quality and copper based medications. Regular water changes and stable conditions are essential. Successful molts depend on good nutrition and access to minerals. A healthy Wood Shrimp will regularly fan the water and maintain good coloration.

Summary
The Wood Shrimp is a fascinating and peaceful freshwater shrimp that adds unique behavior to an aquarium. With proper water flow fine food and a mature setup it can thrive and become a standout inhabitant in community tanks.