How to Breed Algae Shrimps

The term "algae shrimps" usually refers to amano shrimps (Cardina multidentata, previously japonica). These are useful little animals to keep in a freshwater aquarium since they do just what the name suggests. They eat enough algae to help keep algae under control. They can be bred in captivity, but the larvae need to be raised in separate saltwater tank.

Things You'll Need

  • Separate 10-Gallon or larger tank
  • Aquarium heater and filter
  • Aquatic plants and rocks
  • Small plastic container
  • Salt mix for marine aquariums
  • Fish flakes
  • Glass jars
  • Fry food
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Instructions

    • 1

      Set up a separate tank for the breeding shrimp with a heater and filter. Include plenty hiding places in the form of rocks and aquatic plants tolerant of brackish and salt water. Fill it with fresh water and allow it to settle for up to four days.

    • 2

      Place the tank in a location that receives plenty of indirect sunlight to encourage algal growth. The larvae in particular need phytoplankton.

    • 3

      Set the tank's temperature between 68 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

    • 4

      Use the plastic container to scoop two male shrimp for every one female shrimp from the main tank and transfer them to the breeding tank. At about 2 inches long, the females are larger than the 1 1/2 inch males.

    • 5

      Mix water for partial (10 to 25 percent) water changes with the salt mix to increase the salinity. Do a partial water change every couple of days until the salinity is about half that of seawater.

    • 6

      Supplement the shrimps' diet of algae and plants with fish flakes until the females produce larvae. The females will become noticeably plumber when they carry eggs. Transfer the adults back to the main tank once the plumpness has gone.

    • 7

      Use the salt mix to increase the salinity of the breeding tank to seawater strength. Remove any plants that start to wilt at this stage.

    • 8

      Replace 10 to 25 percent of the salty tank water with fresh water every five to seven days after 12 weeks. At this point, the larvae will look and behave like miniature adults. Transfer the young shrimp to the main tank when the salinity of the breeding tank is close to pure freshwater.