A completely transparent freshwater shrimp native to the southeastern United States. While frequently sold as inexpensive feeder animals, they make fascinating, active scavengers for nano and peaceful community tanks. They tirelessly consume uneaten food and detritus but have a relatively short lifespan of 1 to 2 years.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
Water Parameters
Temperament & Compatibility
Available Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Standard
The standard transparent ghost shrimp. Excellent cleaners that spend their time foraging on the substrate and among plants. (Note: Ensure they are true Palaemonetes and not aggressive Macrobrachium prawns, which are sometimes mislabeled in stores).
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Also known as: Clear Shrimp, True Ghost Shrimp
Ghost Shrimp Care Guide Summary
The Ghost Shrimp, scientifically known as Palaemonetes paludosus, belongs to the Invertebrates family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 4 cm and have a fusiform body shape with a fast growth rate. Classified as peaceful, this species primarily occupies the bottom zone of the aquarium and produces a low level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Ghost Shrimp requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 19 litres and a tank length of at least 30 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 18°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 6.5–8 and a general hardness of 5–15 dGH. A low water flow is preferred.
The Ghost Shrimp is a rewarding species to keep, provided its core environmental needs are met. The Ghost Shrimp is typically available in one standard form.
Ghost Shrimp Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Ghost Shrimp, a low water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the bottom zone, the aquarium layout should prioritise sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include leaf litter or blackwater tannins to replicate their natural soft-water habitat and dense planting to provide cover, break sightlines, and reduce stress.
Ghost Shrimp Compatibility Notes
Classified as peaceful, the Ghost Shrimp is adaptable and can be kept singly or in a small group, offering flexibility when planning a community tank. When choosing tankmates, their energetic swimming style may stress more sedentary or timid species. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the bottom zone can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ghost Shrimp
How big does Ghost Shrimp get?+
What tank size does Ghost Shrimp need?+
What water parameters does Ghost Shrimp need?+
Is Ghost Shrimp peaceful or aggressive?+
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Similar Species
Glass Catfish
Kryptopterus vitreolus
A highly unique, completely transparent catfish from Thailand. Unlike most catfish, they are mid-water swimmers that require being kept in schools to feel secure. They are incredibly peaceful and easily outcompeted for food. They require stable water parameters and dim lighting or shaded areas provided by floating plants.
Cherry Shrimp
Neocaridina davidi
One of the most popular and hardy freshwater invertebrates in the hobby. They come in a rainbow of selectively bred colors. They are excellent scavengers and algae eaters, perfect for nano planted tanks. They are completely peaceful and have a negligible bioload, though they are highly vulnerable to predation by almost any fish with a mouth large enough to eat them.
Bee Shrimp (Crystal Red / Black)
Caridina cantonensis
A sensitive, highly prized dwarf shrimp species known for its vivid red/white or black/white banding. Unlike the hardy Cherry Shrimp (Neocaridina), Bee Shrimp require cool, soft, acidic water and typically require active buffering soil to thrive. They are peaceful grazers perfect for specific biotope setups.
Amano Shrimp
Caridina multidentata
A highly popular, industrious freshwater shrimp renowned for its unmatched algae-eating abilities. Popularized by aquascaper Takashi Amano, they are significantly larger and hardier than most dwarf shrimp (like Cherry Shrimp). They are notorious food-thieves during feeding time and excellent escape artists, requiring a tight-fitting lid. Their larvae require saltwater to develop, so they will not overpopulate in a freshwater aquarium.
Bamboo Shrimp
Atyopsis moluccensis
A large, completely peaceful freshwater filter-feeding shrimp. They use specialized fan-like appendages to catch microorganisms and fine food particles from the water column. They require an established aquarium with moderate to high water flow and tall resting places (like driftwood) directly in the current.
Black Ghost Knifefish
Apteronotus albifrons
A fascinating nocturnal predator native to the Amazon basin. It lacks a dorsal fin and moves via a continuous undulating ventral fin, allowing it to swim backwards as easily as forwards. It generates a weak electrical field to navigate and hunt in the dark. Scaleless and highly sensitive to medications, it requires smooth hiding places (like PVC pipes or smooth driftwood). Will consume any fish small enough to fit in its surprisingly large mouth.