Ghost shrimp
Palaemon paludosus · Palaemonidae
Also known as Glass shrimp, Grass shrimp
Beginner
Transparent freshwater shrimp that scavenges leftovers; shops often mix it up with larger, aggressive look-alikes.
In short: A ghost shrimp needs at least 38 L (10 US gal), water at 18–27 °C (64–81 °F) and pH 6.5–8. It is peaceful, best kept in groups of 5 or more, and rated beginner to keep.
Updated
- Minimum tank
- 38 L (10 US gal)
- Temperature
- 18–27 °C (64–81 °F)
- pH
- 6.5–8
- Adult size
- 5 cm (2 in)
- Group size
- 5+
Care requirements
- Minimum tank volume
- 38 L (10 US gal)
- Temperature
- 18–27 °C (64–81 °F)
- pH
- 6.5–8
- Hardness
- 3–15 dGH
- Lifespan
- 1–1.5 years
- Diet
- Scavenger: sinking pellets, algae wafers, blanched vegetables and leftovers.
- Care level
- Beginner
Origin & habitat
- Native region
- Eastern USA and Canada (western Atlantic drainages)
- Water type
- Freshwater
- Biotope
- Vegetated ponds, ditches and slow streams
- Natural conditions
- Shallow, plant-filled fresh to slightly brackish water.
Behaviour & stocking
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Minimum group
- 5 fish
- Swims
- Bottom
- Good tank mates
- Small peaceful fishAmano shrimpNeocaridina (cherry) shrimp
- Avoid
- GoldfishCichlidsAny fish big enough to eat shrimpBettas and other slow, long-finned fish
Breeding & difficulty
- Breeding difficulty
- Intermediate
- Sexing
- Berried females carry eggs under the tail.
- Notes
- Eggs hatch in about three weeks into tiny larvae, which need fine food and a sponge filter to survive.
- Common ailments
- Failed moultsCopper poisoning from medication
Will it fit your tank?
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