Riffle Shrimp
Australatya striolata
A fascinating freshwater filter-feeding shrimp native to the fast-flowing creeks (riffles) of Eastern Australia. They possess specialized fan-like appendages used to catch suspended microscopic food from the water column. They require highly oxygenated water with strong flow and are sensitive to poor water quality. They are completely peaceful but known to be excellent climbers and jumpers.
Riffle Shrimp At a Glance
Riffle Shrimp Tank Requirements
Will Riffle Shrimp fit in your tank?
Care guides tell you what Riffle Shrimp needs, the next question is whether your tank can safely provide it. Test Riffle Shrimp against your tank size, maintenance needs, and the fish you already keep before you buy.
Riffle Shrimp Water Parameters
Riffle Shrimp Temperament & Compatibility
Riffle Shrimp Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Standard
The standard representation of the Riffle Shrimp. Interestingly, this species is a protandrous hermaphrodite: all individuals are born male and transition to female as they grow past 3.5-4cm. They require established tanks with plenty of suspended particulate matter to thrive.
Same care requirements as the base species
Also known as: Adult, Filter Shrimp
Riffle Shrimp Care Guide Summary
The Riffle Shrimp, scientifically known as Australatya striolata, belongs to the Invertebrates family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 6 cm and have a fusiform body shape with a slow growth rate. Classified as peaceful, this species primarily occupies the mid-level and bottom zones of the aquarium and produces a low level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Riffle Shrimp requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 50 litres and a tank length of at least 45 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 17°C and 25°C, with a pH range of 6.5–8 and a general hardness of 4–15 dGH. A high water flow is preferred.
The Riffle Shrimp is a rewarding species to keep, provided its core environmental needs are met. The Riffle Shrimp is typically available in one standard form.
Riffle Shrimp Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Riffle Shrimp, a high water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the mid-level and bottom zones, the aquarium layout should prioritise open swimming space in the centre of the tank for free movement and sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include smooth gravel or rounded substrate to protect their sensitive barbels and driftwood, which can serve as both a hiding place and a dietary supplement. Keepers should note that a tight-fitting lid is essential, as this species is a known jumper.
Riffle Shrimp Compatibility Notes
Classified as peaceful, the Riffle Shrimp is adaptable and can be kept singly or in a small group, offering flexibility when planning a community tank. When choosing tankmates, boisterous or fast-moving tankmates may cause this species undue stress. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the mid-level and bottom zones can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Who Riffle Shrimp Is Actually For
Riffle Shrimp is best for a fishkeeper who wants a species that can settle into a calmer community setup and can provide someone who understands its individual space requirements. It makes the most sense for a hobbyist who will actually build around its needs, especially driftwood.
The most common mistake is buying Riffle Shrimp for looks first and only later discovering how its adult size, behavior, or bioload changes the whole tank plan. Another frequent problem is forcing it into an over-busy community when it would do better with more room or more deliberate tankmate choices.
Riffle Shrimp Recommended Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes that meet the minimum volume and length requirements for Riffle Shrimp.
15 Gallon Standard
20 Gallon High
20 Gallon Long
29 Gallon Standard
30 Gallon Breeder
36 Gallon Bowfront
Show 21 more tank sizes
Frequently Asked Questions About Riffle Shrimp
How big does Riffle Shrimp get?
Riffle Shrimp (Australatya striolata) typically reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 6 cm. They have a fusiform body shape and a slow growth rate.
What tank size does Riffle Shrimp need?
A minimum aquarium volume of 50 litres and a tank length of at least 45 cm are recommended for Riffle Shrimp. This ensures enough swimming space and helps maintain stable water conditions.
What water parameters does Riffle Shrimp need?
Riffle Shrimp thrives in freshwater only conditions with a temperature range of 17–25°C, a pH between 6.5 and 8, and a general hardness of 4–15 dGH. A high water flow is preferred.
Is Riffle Shrimp peaceful or aggressive?
Riffle Shrimp is classified as peaceful with an aggression score of 0 out of 10. They are generally well-suited to peaceful community tanks.
Can Riffle Shrimp live alone?
Yes, Riffle Shrimp can be kept singly or in a group. They are flexible and adapt well to both setups.
Does Riffle Shrimp have any special tank requirements?
Yes. Riffle Shrimp benefits from driftwood (digestion/hiding) and smooth gravel (sensitive barbels) in the aquarium. These features help replicate their natural habitat and promote overall health and well-being.
Does Riffle Shrimp need a lid on the tank?
Yes. Riffle Shrimp is a known jumper, and a tight-fitting lid or cover is essential to prevent escape. Even a small gap can be enough for a determined fish to leap out.
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Guidarium Editorial Desk
Reviewed against Guidarium care, stocking, and compatibility standards. Read the editorial policy.
- Last reviewed
- May 11, 2026
- Last updated
- May 11, 2026
- Issues or corrections?
- Contact the editorial team
Top Tank Mates for Riffle Shrimp
These fish are strong compatibility matches for Riffle Shrimp based on water preferences, temperament, adult size, and tank behavior.
Spotted Hillstream Loach
Gastromyzon punctulatus
Ideal Tank MatesCrying Whiptail
Loricaria sp. "Rio Atabapo"
Ideal Tank MatesGiant Whiptail Catfish
Proloricaria prolixa
Ideal Tank MatesLoricaria lentiginosa
Loricaria lentiginosa
Ideal Tank MatesGoby Pleco (Pitbull Pleco)
Parotocinclus jumbo
Ideal Tank MatesChocolate Loricaria (L062)
Loricaria cataphracta
Ideal Tank MatesPlants That Suit Riffle Shrimp
These plants pair well with Riffle Shrimp based on shared water preferences, layout fit, and how likely they are to hold up in the same aquarium.
African Water Fern
Bolbitis heudelotii
Boivin's Aponogeton
Aponogeton boivinianus
Capuron's Aponogeton
Aponogeton capuronii
Madagascar Lace Plant
Aponogeton madagascariensis
African Onion Plant
Crinum calamistratum
Afzel's Anubias
Anubias afzelii
Fish Similar to Riffle Shrimp
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Caridina logemanni
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Bamboo Shrimp
Atyopsis moluccensis
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Ghost Shrimp
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American Grass Shrimp
Palaemonetes kadiakensis
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Red Goldflake Shrimp
Caridina sp. Red Goldflake
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