Family: Atayae
Distribution: Atya gabonensis is distributed around South America and West Africa, particularly the rivers and streams of Cameroon. It has a variety of common names, including African Filter Shrimp and the Cameroun Fan Shrimp.
PH: 7.0
Temperature: 23 – 28°C (73 – 82°F)
Hardness: 5 – 18 dH
Description: Measuring in around the 15 cm mark, Atya gabonensis looks much more fearsome than it is in reality. It ranges from light blue-grey to brown – even black on occasions. Males and females look very similar which can make sexing difficult.
Diet: Atya gabonensis use fan-like appendages on their heads to feed. When feeding this shrimp, crumble fish flake into the water so it can filter the small food particles through its appendages.
Breeding: The African Filter Shrimp is not easy to breed. It requires brackish water in order to raise its hatched larvae; the young shrimp will exist as plankton before becoming adult-like after several moults.
Comments: Atya gabonensis require a tank of 20 gallons minimum. Provide a lot of plants and hiding places; this shrimp is shy – almost nocturnal – and likes to hide away during the day. They love to climb, so provide plenty of structures for the African Filter Shrimp to play around on and hide in. This species, given its need for brackish water when breeding and its obscure way of feeding, is not suited to beginners. Only experienced hobbyists – those who know how to deftly adjust water conditions – should attempt to house the African Filter Shrimp.
Article/Books:
Recommended Compatible Species: The African Filter Shrimp should not be tanked with crustacean-eating fish, for obvious reasons. Puffers, loaches and Peacock cichlids will eat these guys for breakfast. This species, like many shrimp, is often best suited to a tank of its own.
Originally posted 2009-12-20 10:13:31. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
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