Macrobrachium rosenbergii Giant Freshwater Prawn

Macrobrachium rosenbergii, the Giant Freshwater Prawn, is the largest freshwater shrimp species kept in aquariums and is native to South and Southeast Asia. Adult males develop dramatically elongated blue chelipeds (claws) that can exceed their own body length, making them one of the most visually impressive freshwater invertebrates available. Active, intelligent, and territorial, large males will fight among themselves and may predate on small fish and invertebrates. Best suited to a large, uncrowded tank with plenty of cover. Their size, personality, and striking appearance make them fascinating showpiece animals for dedicated large-species invertebrate displays.

Water: pH 6.5–8.0, TDS 150–400 ppm, temperature 24–30°C; adaptable but prefers warm, tropical conditions. Tank: 200+ litres for adults; heavy cover and territory dividers for multiple males; robust filtration. Feeding: Carnivorous tendency; shrimp pellets, frozen foods, small feeder invertebrates, fish pellets. Breeding: Larvae require brackish water; captive breeding is complex and not recommended for most hobbyists. Compatibility: Predatory toward small fish and invertebrates; large species-only or large cichlid setups only.