Ghost shrimp, also known as glass shrimp (scientific name Palaemonetes paludosus), are small, transparent freshwater invertebrates popular among aquarium enthusiasts. These shrimp are admired for their scavenging abilities, ease of care, and interesting behavior. Often used as a low-cost feeder for larger fish, ghost shrimp are more than just a snack; they are effective aquarium cleaners and fascinating to observe.
Introduction to Ghost Shrimp
Ghost shrimp are primarily translucent and highly active, making them a captivating addition to any freshwater aquarium. Their low price makes them accessible to both novice and experienced aquarists. These shrimp are hardy and condition-tolerant compared to other shrimp varieties, making them an excellent choice for beginners.
Ideal Aquarium Conditions
Creating the right environment is crucial for the health and well-being of ghost shrimp.
Water Parameters
- Temperature: The optimal aquarium temperature for ghost shrimp is between 65-85°F (18-29°C). They thrive at around 75°F in a tropical aquarium. While they can tolerate temperatures as low as 65°F, maintaining a stable temperature is essential. Higher temperatures can accelerate growth and reproduction rates but reduce dissolved oxygen levels, requiring lower stocking densities. Temperatures exceeding 85°F (30°C) are generally not tolerated. Low temperatures can increase susceptibility to disease.
- pH: Ghost shrimp can adapt to a pH range of 6.5 - 8.0. However, a neutral pH of around 7.0 promotes optimal health, color, and hatching rates of eggs. Neutral tap water is usually suitable for water changes.
- Nitrite: Nitrite levels should always be at 0 ppm. Before introducing ghost shrimp, ensure the aquarium is fully cycled and nitrite levels are checked with a test kit, as ghost shrimp are highly sensitive to nitrite.
- Ammonia: Ammonia levels should also be at 0 ppm after cycling. Ghost shrimp are sensitive to elevated ammonia levels.
- Nitrate: Nitrate levels should be kept below 20 ppm, with an ideal target of 0 ppm. Regular water changes and the addition of plants can help maintain low nitrate levels.
Tank Setup
- Tank Size: Ghost shrimp can be kept in aquariums larger than 5 gallons.
- Substrate: Fine gravel or sand substrate is suitable for ghost shrimp.
- Plants and Decorations: A heavily planted tank with moss, driftwood, rocks, and shrimp caves provides hiding places and contributes to the shrimp's well-being. Live plants also help maintain water quality by shedding plant matter that the shrimp can feed on.
- Filtration: Use a sponge filter or a gentle hang-on-back (HOB) filter to prevent the shrimp from being sucked into the intake. Air filters are also recommended, as young ghost shrimp are weaker swimmers and prefer slower water currents.
- Water Changes: Perform water changes of at least 30% weekly. Use a spare glass heater to match the temperature of the new water to the aquarium water, reducing shock to the shrimp during water changes.
Introducing Ghost Shrimp to the Aquarium
- Acclimation: Float the bag containing the ghost shrimp in the aquarium for about 15-30 minutes to equalize the temperature.
- Drip Acclimation: Transfer the shrimp to a bowl. Use air-line tubing to create a siphon from the aquarium, dripping water into the bowl at a rate of about one drop per second for 20-30 minutes.
- Transfer: Gently transfer the shrimp to the aquarium using a soft mesh net, covering the net to prevent them from jumping out.
Feeding Ghost Shrimp
Ghost shrimp are omnivorous scavengers and will consume a wide variety of foods, including brush algae and fallen food. They are effective at cleaning the aquarium of rotting debris and algae.
Diet
- Natural Foods: Ghost shrimp naturally feed on brush algae, biofilm, and decaying plant matter.
- Processed Foods: They readily accept processed foods such as flakes and pellets.
- Vegetables: Boiled zucchini and soft vegetables provide essential nutrients.
- Supplements: Calcium supplements are beneficial for healthy shell growth.
- Live Feeders: Ghost shrimp can be purposefully bred to feed to aquarium fish, providing beneficial natural oils and fats for coloration and development. They have a lower risk of carrying diseases compared to other live feeder species.
Feeding Frequency
Feed ghost shrimp once a day in small portions. As scavengers, they will also consume uneaten food and detritus in the tank.
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Tank Mates and Compatibility
Ghost shrimp are best kept in a species-only aquarium or with other very small, peaceful shrimp species. Due to their small size and defenseless nature, they are easily harassed and consumed by larger fish.
Suitable Tank Mates
- Other ghost shrimp
- Bamboo Shrimp (aka Wood Shrimp)
- Vampire Shrimp (aka Viper Shrimp)
- Amano Shrimp (if the Amanos are larger)
- Red Cherry Shrimp
- Nerite Snails
- Mystery Snails
- Malaysian Trumpet Snails
- Gold Inca Snails
- Ivory Snails
- Ramshorn Snails
- Cory Catfish
- Otocinclus Catfish
Fish to Avoid
- Discus
- Oscars
- Cichlids
- Arowanas
- Angelfish
- Tetras and other smaller fish (can pose a risk to younger fry)
- Bettas (some may hunt shrimp)
Stocking Density
Ghost shrimp have a low biomass and ecological footprint, producing very little waste. A general guideline is to keep up to 10 shrimp per gallon of tank water.
Breeding Ghost Shrimp
Breeding ghost shrimp can be a rewarding experience, although it presents some challenges.
Setting Up a Breeding Tank
- Separate Tank: Set up a separate breeding tank with a sponge filter to protect the fry.
- Plants: Fill the tank with thick plant cover to provide safety and security for the shrimp.
- Temperature: Raise the temperature to around 80°F (26.7°C) to simulate warmer months.
- Water Hardness: Increase the relative hardness of the water by adding a small bag of limestone chips to the filter.
Breeding Process
- Sexing: Ensure the tank is stocked with both males and females. Females are typically larger (about 1.5x the length of males). It is optimal to have twice as many females as males.
- Mating: Once the female is ready to mate, she will molt and release pheromones that attract the males.
- Egg Carrying: Within one to two weeks, females will be noticeably carrying hundreds of eggs beneath their tails. They will constantly fan the eggs to keep them oxygenated and healthy.
Raising the Fry
- Fry Tank: Move the berried female to a fry-only tank to protect the fry from being eaten by adults.
- Feeding: Feed the fry infusoria, spirulina, or powdered fry food.
- Water Quality: Maintain excellent water quality in the fry tank.
- Metamorphosis: It takes up to 10 days for the larvae to metamorphose into miniature versions of the adults.
Common Breeding Challenges
- Calcium Levels: Ensure calcium levels are appropriate in the tank. Too high can lead to impermeable shells, while too low can lead to soft shell development.
- Temperature: Maintain a temperature of around 80°F to encourage birth.
- Stress: Provide plenty of plant and artificial cover to reduce stress on the shrimp.
Ghost Shrimp Lifespan and Molting
Ghost shrimp lifespan can range from a couple of days to 1 year, with some individuals living slightly longer under optimal conditions.
Molting
Ghost shrimp molt regularly as they grow, shedding their old exoskeleton. The frequency of molting decreases with age. During molting, shrimp are vulnerable and tend to hide. Leave the empty shed shell in the tank, as other shrimp may feed off it.
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Common Issues and Troubleshooting
- Sudden Deaths: Check water parameters immediately if ghost shrimp begin to look unwell. Perform a water change and try to identify the problem. Move the shrimp to a suitable temporary home if necessary.
- White Coloration: Ghost shrimp may turn white when they are about to molt, at the end of their lifespan, or if they are stressed due to poor water quality.
- Aggression: Be aware that some ghost shrimp species can be more aggressive than others. Palaemonetes paludosus is a non-aggressive option. Avoid Macrobrachium lanchesteri, which is sometimes sold under the same name.
Are Ghost Shrimp Nocturnal?
The common American glass shrimp, Palaemonetes paludosus, is officially nocturnal. However, they are still relatively active during the day in the aquarium.
Purchasing Ghost Shrimp
Ghost shrimp are commonly available at local pet stores and larger chain stores. They are often kept in small tanks with sponge filters or air stones. When purchasing, be aware that they may be sold as feeders and may not be in the best condition.
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