Whisker Shrimp

Macrobrachium lanchesteri, the Whisker Shrimp, is a fully transparent freshwater shrimp named for its conspicuously long white antennae (whiskers) that extend well beyond the body length. In a planted tank, the combination of a glass-clear body and animated behaviour makes it a fascinating if unusual display animal.

Unlike dwarf Neocaridina and Caridina, the Whisker Shrimp has a more assertive personality and may prey upon or harass smaller invertebrates including dwarf shrimp. It is best kept in a species-only tank, alongside larger robust fish, or as a scavenger in community tanks without other small invertebrates.

Whisker Shrimp are highly adaptable, tolerating a wide range of water parameters, and breed readily in captivity. They produce larvae that require brackish or estuarine conditions to complete development, making full captive breeding challenging without specialist facilities.

Water: 22–28°C, pH 6.5–7.8, GH 4–12; adaptable to most dechlorinated freshwater. Tank: minimum 30 L; provide hiding spots and structure; fine substrate; moderate planting. Feeding: omnivorous scavenger; algae wafers, sinking pellets, frozen foods, organic debris. Breeding: larvae require brackish water; captive breeding is difficult without specialist equipment. Compatibility: semi-aggressive; do not keep with dwarf shrimp; suitable with larger, robust fish.