Atyopsis moluccensis Bamboo Shrimp

The Bamboo Shrimp (also known as Wood Shrimp or Asian Filter Shrimp), Atyopsis moluccensis, is a large, impressive filter-feeding shrimp native to fast-flowing streams of Southeast Asia including Sri Lanka and the Indonesian archipelago. Rather than grazing on surfaces like most shrimp, Bamboo Shrimp use highly specialized fan-shaped chelipeds to strain fine food particles — biofilm, fine algae, microorganisms — directly from water currents. In the aquarium, they require a strong, directed water flow to position themselves in and actively feed. Supplemental powdered foods released upstream improve feeding success. Peaceful and non-destructive, they are fascinating display shrimp that coexist well with most peaceful fish.

Water: pH 6.5–7.5, TDS 150–350 ppm, temperature 22–28°C; well-oxygenated with strong flow areas. Tank: 60+ litres; provide a strong directional flow (powerhead or filter return); driftwood and plants. Feeding: Fine powdered shrimp foods, spirulina powder, and phytoplankton released upstream of feeding positions. Breeding: Larvae are marine — full breeding in freshwater is not achievable; import only. Compatibility: Peaceful; excellent with small fish and other invertebrates; do not house with predatory species.