Shrimps for sale in the Netherlands

Freshwater shrimp: behaviour and suitability

Shrimp forage together for biofilm and detritus and hide around moulting. Fish often eat juveniles and sometimes adults, so “peaceful” does not automatically mean safe together. Always assess the actual animal and, when a trade label covers several species, verify the scientific name before acquisition. Age, sex, health and previous housing can noticeably influence behaviour.

Care and housing

Use a mature covered aquarium of at least 30 litres with safe sponge filtration, sand or fine gravel and many shelters. Most species thrive at 20–24 °C. Ask for species-specific temperature and keep nitrite, nitrate and copper low. Set up the complete enclosure before the animal arrives and record relevant values and daily behaviour. A sudden change in appetite, activity, breathing, posture or droppings calls for a check of the environment and, where needed, knowledgeable help.

Health and responsible acquisition

Choose active animals from a clean tank and acclimate them slowly to the new water chemistry. Milky white colour and stiffness may indicate porcelain or milk disease. Isolate suspect animals immediately and consult a knowledgeable veterinarian. Ask the seller about age, origin, current care and known health problems, and ensure any documents belong to the animal offered. Never choose on colour, size or price alone, and identify a knowledgeable veterinarian or other species expert before urgent problems arise.