Family: Atayae
Distribution: Atya gabonensis, a crustacean with several common names including the Asian Fan Shrimp, Singapore Shrimp, and Wood Shrimp, is distributed in the waters of Southeast Asia.
PH: 6.5 – 7.5
Temperature: 23 – 28°C (73 – 82°F)
Hardness: 12 – 18 dH
Description: Asian Fan Shrimp are approximately 12 cm in length. They vary greatly in colour, but are usually brownish with a light stripe down their back. Fully developed males will have larger, thicker forelegs than females.
Diet: Atyopsis moluccensis should be given flake food or powered spirulina. The shrimp will use its fan-like appendages to scrap around for food; this may mean there is not enough food in the tank or a strong enough current for it to feed effectively.
Breeding: The Asian Fan Shrimp, like the African Filter Shrimp, is not easily bred in captivity. You will struggle to breed in freshwater; they will mate, but the larvae requires brackish to full marine water if it is to develop properly.
Comments: Atyopsis moluccensis will need a tank of at least 20 gallons. As mentioned earlier, this shrimp will appreciate a current in order to filter its food properly. Provide a piece of driftwood for it to perch on and eat its food from. Given how hard it is to successfully breed this species, it may be best left to hobbyists with extensive shrimp-keeping experience.
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Recommended Compatible Species: This species is compatible with any non-aggressive fish. Cichlids should be avoided as tank mates. The Asian Fan Shrimp may look big and intimidating, but it is mild-mannered and will not harm other tank mates. As with many shrimp, it may be safest to house this species in a tank of its own.
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