Vampire Shrimp care guide

Vampire Shrimp (Atyoida pilipes) — minimum tank 100 L, temperature 23-28 °C, pH 6.8-7.8.

Overview

Vampire Shrimp (Atyoida pilipes) is a large filter-feeding shrimp of the family Atyidae, listed in the Aquairi knowledge base as an intermediate-level species. Large filter-feeding shrimp with imposing color variations from blue to brown. Reclusive, comes out at dusk to filter feed in current.

Taxonomy

Family: Atyidae
Genus: Atyoida
Scientific name: Atyoida pilipes
Common synonyms: Mountain Shrimp, Viper Shrimp, African Filter Shrimp

Habitat

Atyoida pilipes is a large filter-feeding atyid shrimp from fast streams of West Africa and Madagascar. The species occupies rocky, well-oxygenated runs and uses fan-like setae on its first pereiopods to filter suspended particles. The Aquairi knowledge base records this entry from: West Africa, Madagascar.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 100 L (26.4 US gal)
Adult size: 8-12 cm
Temperature: 23-28 °C (73-82 °F)
pH: 6.8-7.8
GH: 6-14 °dGH
KH: 3-8 °dKH
Lifespan: 3-5 years

Diet

An obligate filter feeder. Fan-like setae on the first pereiopods sweep suspended particles — phytoplankton, biofilm fragments, fine pellet dust and powdered shrimp food — from the water column. Adequate flow past a stable perch is essential; the animal does not graze surfaces effectively.

Compatibility

Peaceful filter feeder best kept with similarly peaceful fish; size and reclusive habits make it incompatible with large or aggressive predators. Suitable tank mates listed in the Aquairi knowledge base: Tetras, Rasboras, Cory Cats. Should be kept away from: Cichlids, Crayfish.

Breeding

Sexual reproduction with an obligatory salt or brackish larval phase. Females release planktonic larvae that develop only in higher-salinity water and metamorphose into the juvenile stage there before migrating back upstream. As a result, the species essentially does not reproduce in pure freshwater aquariums; eggs may be laid on hardscape, but the larvae cannot complete development.