BAMBOO SHRIMP

Bamboo Shrimp (Atyopsis moluccensis), also known as Wood Shrimp or Singapore Flower Shrimp, are fascinating and peaceful freshwater shrimp known for their filter-feeding behavior. They are a popular choice for aquarists looking to add unique and functional invertebrates to their tank. Here's a comprehensive care guide for Bamboo Shrimp:

Tank Size and Setup

• Tank Size: A minimum tank size of 20 gallons is recommended for a single Bamboo Shrimp, although a larger tank (30+ gallons) is preferable if keeping multiple shrimp. Larger tanks offer better water stability and more food availability.
• Substrate: Use a soft, fine-grained substrate such as sand or smooth gravel. Bamboo Shrimp often rest on the substrate and in other areas of the tank, so a substrate that won’t damage their delicate bodies is important.
• Plants and Decor: Include plenty of live plants such as Java fern, Anubias, or moss to provide cover and a natural habitat. Plants help maintain water quality and provide places for the shrimp to perch. Adding driftwood, rocks, and other decor provides additional surfaces for them to climb and perch, allowing them to access flowing water.
• Flow: Bamboo Shrimp are filter feeders and need areas with moderate to strong water flow where they can set up their feeding fans. Positioning them near the output of a filter or near a gentle current is ideal.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: Maintain a temperature between 72-82°F (22-28°C). They prefer stable, tropical temperatures.
• pH: Bamboo Shrimp thrive in slightly acidic to neutral water, with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5.
• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water, with a general hardness (GH) of 3-12 dGH. A carbonate hardness (KH) of 3-10 dKH is also suitable.
• Water Quality: Bamboo Shrimp are sensitive to poor water conditions. Maintain excellent water quality with ammonia and nitrite levels at 0 ppm and nitrate levels below 20 ppm. Regular water changes (20-30% weekly) are crucial.

Feeding

• Diet: Bamboo Shrimp are filter feeders, meaning they use their fan-like appendages to catch small particles of food from the water. In a well-established, planted tank, they will naturally filter micro-organisms, detritus, and plant matter from the water.
• Supplemental Feeding: In tanks with less natural food available, supplement their diet with finely ground flake food, powdered shrimp food, or specially formulated invertebrate foods. These can be added to the water near their feeding spot. Liquid fry foods or infusoria can also be used as supplemental food sources.