Glass Shrimp (Macrobrachium lanchesteri)

Macrobrachium lanchesteri, the Glass Shrimp or Lancaster's Freshwater Prawn, is a small freshwater prawn native to the rivers and streams of Southeast Asia. Its most remarkable characteristic is its near-complete transparency — the glass-like, colorless body reveals the internal organs and makes the shrimp appear almost ghost-like in the aquarium, creating a unique delicate aesthetic that contrasts with more brightly colored shrimp species. In the aquarium it is an industrious and peaceful scavenger that consumes algae, detritus, uneaten food, and organic debris, contributing quietly to tank cleanliness without disturbing other inhabitants. Best suited to planted community tanks with peaceful fish species that will not prey on the small, defenseless shrimp.

Maintain in a peaceful community aquarium without predatory fish — even medium-sized fish may eat this small, transparent shrimp. Provide plenty of fine plants, moss, and hiding places for security. Feed with algae wafers, blanched vegetables, and accumulated biofilm — supplement if natural food sources are limited. Keep in groups for best welfare. Avoid copper-based medications. Temperature 22–28°C with moderate hardness.