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From its size, hardiness & longevity, to its color-changing ability, the
Vampire Shrimp is the king of freshwater shrimp species!
The Vampire Shrimp (Atya gabonensis) is certainly among the most fascinating
and unique aquarium shrimp available. Also known as the African Filter Shrimp,
Viper Shrimp, Gabon Shrimp, and Cameroon Shrimp, this peaceful species is very
rare, but ideal for the nano and planted aquarium. It has highly variable blue,
gray, brown, white, or pink coloration that can change several times per year.
While sometimes reclusive, this shrimp can often be seen waving its “fans” in
the water current in an attempt to gather particulate food matter. Unlike many
shorter-lived shrimp, the Vampire Shrimp can live for as long as 5 years with
proper care!
The Vampire Shrimp is a filter feeding shrimp and will position itself in
areas of highest water flow and use its filtering appendages to pull
microorganisms, shed plant matter, and other fine food items from the water. In
aquariums with multiple specimens, it is fun to see several of these shrimp
gathered in one area feeding together. This species is completely safe for
dwarf shrimp aquariums, but it does not tolerate temperatures as low as the
temperatures that most dwarf shrimp enjoy. The Vampire Shrimp requires
oxygen-rich water with a heavier current than many other shrimp species. and
are also necessary for the long-term well-being of the Vampire Shrimp. Like all
invertebrates, it is extremely sensitive to copper and must never be exposed to
this metal, even in very small amounts.
This shrimp is known as a low-form spawner, meaning that its fry go through
several complex larval planktonic stages in a wide variety of water conditions,
including brackish and marine salinity. As a result, large-scale spawning in
captivity has not yet been reported.
What We Like About This Shrimp:
A rare alternative or companion to Singapore Flower/Bamboo Shrimp
Completely peaceful with non-aggressive tankmates, including dwarf shrimp
Safe with all plants
Variable and attractive coloration
Recommended Tank Parameters:
Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
Temperature: 75° - 84° F (24° - 28.8° C)
pH: 6.8 - 7.5
dGH: 6 - 20
dKH: 2 - 15
TDS: 150 - 300
Vampire Shrimp Care Guidelines:
Diet: Omnivorous filter feeder and scavenger. Accepts most
Social Behavior: Peaceful. Can be kept singly but will also happily
congregate in groups.
Origin: Western Africa, South America
Average Adult Size: 5 - 6 inches (12.7 - 15.2 cm)
Average Purchase Size: Small: 1 - 2 inches (2.5 - 5 cm), Medium: 2.25 -
3.25 inches (5.7 - 8.3 cm), Large: 3.5+ Inches (