How to Keep Grass Shrimp Alive in Tanks

Grass shrimp, also known as ghost shrimp or glass shrimp, are freshwater shrimp commonly kept in aquariums. Though they often are used as food for aquarium denizens, they can be kept as a pet in their own right. They are very undemanding aquarium organisms, eating almost any food but rarely bothering other pets. And they can be easily kept by even the greenest aquarist.

Things You'll Need

  • Aquarium (at least 10 gallons)
  • Filter, your choice of type (sponge if you wish to breed the shrimp)
  • Aquarium heater
  • Gravel from an established aquarium
  • Aquarium lighting (optional, but it is next to impossible to see these shrimp without lighting)
  • Fish food, flake
  • Baby brine shrimp or rotifers, available online
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Instructions

    • 1

      Assemble your aquarium. It should be heated (68 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit) and filtered.

    • 2

      Add mature aquarium gravel. This means the gravel has come from an established fish tank, which ensures the gravel is already seeded with beneficial bacteria that help keep the water clean.

    • 3

      Add plenty of aquarium plants (real or artificial) or other decorations. Grass shrimp need hiding places to feel safe and comfortable.

    • 4

      Feed your shrimp. If you have fish in the tank, leftover food and algae will be sufficient for them. If not, aquarium flake food is adequate for them.

    • 5

      Look for pregnant females, if you wish to breed these shrimp. For best results, move females to a separate, densely planted aquarium when you observe them carrying their green eggs under their belly. When they hatch, return the mother to the main aquarium, and feed the baby grass shrimp baby brine shrimp or rotifers.