Ghost Shrimp (Palaemonetes paludosus) Care Guide
The Ghost Shrimp, also known as glass shrimp, is a fascinating freshwater invertebrate prized for its transparency, scavenging habits, and low-maintenance care. Ideal for beginners, Ghost Shrimp are both functional cleaners and visually intriguing additions to aquariums.
Tank Setup & Requirements
| Parameter | Range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 65–82°F (18–27°C) |
| pH | 7.0–8.0; prefers harder water |
| Tank Size | 5–10 gallons minimum |
| Water Quality | Avoid copper; stable filtration recommended |
- Use sponge filters or pre-filter guards to protect shrimp.
- Add plants, driftwood, and hiding spaces for enrichment and breeding.
Feeding & Behavior
Ghost Shrimp are omnivorous scavengers, eating algae, decaying plants, leftover fish food, and detritus. Supplement with:
- Algae wafers
- Spirulina flakes
- Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach)
- Protein-rich treats like brine shrimp
They’re active and entertaining, often cleaning hard-to-reach spots in the tank.
Breeding Ghost Shrimp
- Females carry eggs (green or yellow) under their abdomens for ~3 weeks.
- Larvae require infusoria or powdered fry food in a separate tank to survive.
- Best bred in species-only tanks for higher fry survival rates.
Best Tank Mates
- ✅ Compatible with: Small tetras, guppies, snails, other peaceful fish.
- ❌ Avoid: Goldfish, cichlids, or aggressive fish—they may eat shrimp.
Why Choose Ghost Shrimp?
- Affordable and readily available
- Natural “clean-up crew”
- Beginner-friendly
- Fascinating transparent bodies
- Adds diversity to community tanks
❓ Ghost Shrimp FAQ
Q1: Are Ghost Shrimp good for aquariums?
A: Yes! Ghost Shrimp are excellent scavengers that help clean up leftover food, algae, and debris, making them a great addition to community aquariums.
Q2: How many Ghost Shrimp should I keep together?
A: A good rule is 3–4 shrimp per gallon. A 10-gallon tank is perfect for starting a colony.
Q3: How long do Ghost Shrimp live?
A: Ghost Shrimp have a lifespan of about 1–1.5 years, though good water quality and proper feeding can extend their life.
Q4: Can Ghost Shrimp live with fish?
A: Yes! They’re peaceful and compatible with small, non-aggressive fish. Avoid large or predatory fish like cichlids and goldfish.
Q5: How do you tell if a Ghost Shrimp is carrying eggs?
A: Females carry clusters of green or yellow eggs under their abdomen. Eggs hatch in about three weeks, releasing free-swimming larvae.
Q6: Do Ghost Shrimp need a heater?
A: Not always. They thrive in 65–82°F water, so a heater is only necessary if your home drops below their preferred range.
Q7: Are Ghost Shrimp hard to breed?
A: Breeding Ghost Shrimp can be challenging because their larvae need special food and are vulnerable in community tanks. Breeding is best done in a separate shrimp-only tank.
