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Freshwater Crustacean
includes algae shrimp, bamboo shrimp, ghost shrimp, freshwater lobsters and crayfish speciesThe unique characteristics and wide variety of freshwater crustaceans provide an appealing addition to your aquarium.
Freshwater Crustacean Facts
| average adult size: | depends on species |
| average life span: | depends on species |
| diet: | omnivore |
| minimum aquarium size: | 5+ gallons, depending on species |
| water temperature: | 72 to 82°F |
Diet
A well-balanced freshwater crustacean diet consists of:
- Typically feeds off excessive food or debris in aquarium.
- Plant (algae) or animal matter.
- Sinking pellets and wafers.
Feeding
Things to remember when feeding your freshwater crustacean:
- Feed daily.
- Ensure food reaches the bottom of the tank; if unsure, drop sinking pellets into the tank at night; alternate protein- and algae-based pellets.
- Feed a variety of food to ensure complete nutrition.
Housing
- Keep in an appropriately sized aquarium; provide hiding places and plenty of room for movement. They need calcium to grow their shells and some species like soft water. Most crustaceans benefit from freshwater salt; follow package instructions.
- Copper-based medications can be toxic to crustaceans.
- Stable water quality and parameters are critical to the health of aquatic life. If you are unsure of your water quality, Petco provides free water testing.
Characteristics
- Crustaceans are characterized by their hard, jointed exoskeleton, which they molt during growth periods; they may burrow or hide during molting stages.
- Scavengers that will help keep tank clean by consuming excess food.
- Some shrimp feed exclusively on algae and are great for algae control.
Habitat Maintenance
Daily: check filter, water temperature and other equipment.
Weekly: check water quality at least once a week.
Monthly: change 10-25% of the total volume of water every 2-4 weeks, or as needed.
Introduce new inhabitants to the aquarium gradually.
Compatibility
Some species can be aggressive towards fish and other crustaceans.
Health
Signs of a Healthy Crustacean
- Even coloring
- Healthy appetite
- Active movement
Avoid overcrowded conditions; they are a major cause of stress and disease. Maintain good water quality with regular water changes and adequate filtration.
Red Flags
- loss of color or appetite
- spots or fungus on body or mouth
- listlessness
Common Health Issues
| Health Issue | Symptoms or Causes | Suggested Action |
|---|---|---|
| Health Issue Body or surface erosion | Symptoms or CausesPoor water quality; nutrient deficiency | Suggested ActionTest and treat water immediately; maintain proper diet. |
| Health IssueLoss of appendage or antennae | Symptoms or CausesFighting between crustaceans or due to an aggressive fish. | Suggested ActionWill usually regenerate. An iodine supplement can help with the molting process. |
Shopping list for needed supplies:
- appropriate size aquarium
- appropriate food, dry and frozen
- décor
- water conditioner
- filter
- water test kit
- full spectrum lighting
- net
- thermometer
- freshwater substrate
- heater
- airline tubing
- airstone
- air pump
- book about freshwater crustaceans
Sources
Ask a store partner about Petco's selection of books on freshwater crustaceans and the variety of private brand products available for the care and happiness of your new pet. All private brand products carry a 100% money-back guarantee.
Because all aquatic life are potential carriers of infectious diseases, such as Atypical Mycobacterium and Salmonella, always wash your hands before and after handling your aquatic life or habitat contents to help prevent the potential spread of disease.
Pregnant women, children under the age of 5, senior citizens and people with weakened immune systems should contact their physician before purchasing or caring for aquatic life and should consider not having aquatic life as a pet.
Go to cdc.gov/healthypets for more information about aquatic life and disease.
Note:The information on this Care Sheet is not a substitute for veterinary care. If you need additional information, please refer to the sources on the following page or contact your veterinarian as appropriate.
Developed with and approved by a qualified veterinarian.
