👻 Ghost Shrimp Care Guide (Palaemonetes paludosus)
🌟 Overview The Ghost Shrimp (Palaemonetes paludosus), also known as Glass Shrimp, is a transparent freshwater invertebrate prized for its role as both a fascinating aquarium pet and a natural scavenger. Their see-through bodies make them fun to observe, while their hardy nature and algae-eating habits make them excellent beginner invertebrates. Ghost Shrimp also serve as a nutritious live food source for larger predatory fish.
🔑 Quick Facts
- Scientific Name: Palaemonetes paludosus
- Common Names: Ghost Shrimp, Glass Shrimp
- Size: 1.5–2 inches (3–5 cm)
- Lifespan: 1–2 years
- Temperament: Peaceful scavenger
- Care Level: Easy
🏠 Tank Requirements
- Minimum Tank Size: 5 gallons
- Water Temperature: 65–82°F (18–28°C)
- pH: 6.5–8.0
- Hardness: 5–15 dGH
- Aquascape: Provide plants, rocks, and hiding spots
- Substrate: Sand or fine gravel preferred
🍽️ Diet
Ghost Shrimp are omnivorous scavengers:
- Leftover fish food and algae
- Sinking pellets and wafers
- Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach, peas)
- Occasional frozen/live foods like bloodworms or brine shrimp
🧑🤝🧑 Tank Mates
- Best with peaceful community fish: tetras, guppies, danios, rasboras
- Compatible with snails and other shrimp
- Avoid aggressive or predatory species (cichlids, large gouramis, bettas)
🧠 Behavior & Tips
- Constantly graze on surfaces, keeping tanks cleaner
- Transparent bodies make internal organs and eggs visible
- Breed readily, but larvae often require brackish water to survive
- Can be kept as feeders or display invertebrates
❓ FAQ
Q: Do Ghost Shrimp clean tanks?
A: Yes, they eat algae, leftover food, and detritus — but they won’t replace regular tank maintenance.
Q: Will Ghost Shrimp breed in my aquarium?
A: They may carry eggs, but the larvae rarely survive in freshwater setups.
Q: How long do Ghost Shrimp live?
A: On average, 1–2 years with good care.
Q: Are Ghost Shrimp good for beginners?
A: Yes, they are hardy, inexpensive, and fun to observe.
