Bamboo Shrimp (Atyopsis moluccensis) is a striking and completely unique filter-feeding shrimp from the fast-flowing rivers of Southeast Asia. Unlike every other shrimp on this list, the Bamboo Shrimp does not graze the substrate or pick at biofilm — instead, it opens its fan-like front appendages directly into the water current to catch suspended food particles drifting by. Watching a Bamboo Shrimp perch in a current with its fans fully extended is one of the most fascinating behaviors in the freshwater hobby. Reddish-brown with subtle striping, these shrimp grow to an impressive 3 inches, making them one of the larger invertebrates commonly kept in home aquariums.
Bamboo Shrimp are completely peaceful and spend much of their time stationary at their chosen perch, occasionally repositioning to find better flow. They do best in established, mature aquariums — a brand new tank simply does not have enough suspended organic particulate matter to sustain a filter feeder, so wait until a tank has been running and planted for some time before adding one. They pair particularly well with other filter feeders like Vampire Shrimp and Thai Micro Crabs, all of which share the same flow and feeding requirements and will often be found posted up near the same current. Avoid keeping Bamboo Shrimp with aggressive or large fish, and provide secure hiding spots near the flow they prefer.
Like all shrimp, Bamboo Shrimp cannot reproduce in freshwater — their larvae require brackish water to develop, so there is no risk of unwanted population growth in a home aquarium. Molting is the most vulnerable period in their life cycle; do not remove molted shells, as the shrimp will consume them to reclaim minerals. Sudden temperature swings are particularly hard on this species, so a stable, reliable heater is essential.
| Bamboo Shrimp | |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Intermediate — specific flow and feeding needs |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Adult Size | Up to 3 inches (7.6 cm) |
| Group Size | Can be kept singly or in small groups |
| Recommended Stocking | 1 per 20 gallons of established, planted aquarium |
| Ideal Temperature | 73–80°F (23–27°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.5–7.5 |
| Diet | Filter feeder — suspended micro-particles only, not substrate foods |
| Staple Food | GlasGarten Bacter AE; GlasGarten Shrimp Baby Food (dosed near flow) |
| Origin | Southeast Asia — fast-flowing rivers and streams |
| Notes |
Copper: Fatal — never use copper medications in shrimp tanks Flow: Requires steady current directed at its perch to filter feed successfully Tank Maturity: Needs an established, mature aquarium with adequate suspended particulate Breeding: Cannot reproduce in freshwater Temperature Stability: Sensitive to sudden swings — use a reliable heater Tankmates: Pairs well with Vampire Shrimp and Thai Micro Crabs (same flow/feeding needs) |
Inventory Accuracy
If this item is at low stock, or you are ordering all or almost all of our current inventory, there may be an inventory discrepency. We will contact you about any issues as soon as possible.
Order Processing
Please allow 24 to
48 hrs to process your order. Expect an
email within 48 hrs to let you know your order is on your way.
Store Pickup
If you choose “Pickup
in Store” at checkout, an email will be sent when your order is ready for
pickup. Orders can be picked up during
store hours, see our home page for our current hours. The pick up address is 6637 Easton Rd,
Pipersville, PA 18947
Domestic Shipping Rates
Shipping charges, if
any, for your order will be calculated and displayed at checkout.
