Species Overview

The Vampire Shrimp is one of the largest, longest-lived, and most fascinating freshwater shrimp available to aquarium hobbyists. Also known as the African Filter Shrimp, Gabon Shrimp, and Viper Shrimp, this remarkable species differs from nearly every other freshwater shrimp by feeding almost entirely through filter feeding rather than actively scavenging across the aquarium. Using specialized fan-shaped appendages, Vampire Shrimp position themselves in areas of moderate to strong current where they continuously capture suspended microorganisms, organic particles, and other microscopic foods drifting through the water.

Another unique characteristic of the Vampire Shrimp is its remarkable ability to change coloration throughout its lifetime. Depending on age, molt cycle, water conditions, and even mood, individuals may display beautiful shades of blue, gray, tan, brown, cream, white, lavender, or subtle pink. Mature specimens often become true centerpiece invertebrates, reaching an impressive 5 to 6 inches in length while living for five years or longer with proper care.

At Aquatic Arts, Vampire Shrimp have long been one of our favorite freshwater invertebrates because they bring together peaceful behavior, fascinating filter-feeding activity, and incredible size in a way that few aquarium shrimp can match. Whether kept individually or in small colonies, they become captivating members of mature planted aquariums where hobbyists can observe their unique feeding behavior every day.

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What We Love About This Shrimp

• One of the largest freshwater shrimp available to the aquarium hobby

• Fascinating fan-feeding behavior unlike any other freshwater shrimp

• Beautiful coloration that naturally changes throughout the year

• Completely peaceful and safe with dwarf shrimp, snails, and aquatic plants

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Quick Care Guide

• Care Level: Easy to Moderate

• Temperament: Extremely Peaceful

• Diet: Omnivorous Filter Feeder (Suspended Microorganisms, Fine Prepared Foods, Biofilm, Organic Matter)

• Source: Imported

• Average Adult Size: 5–6 Inches (12.7–15.2 cm)

• Available Purchase Sizes:
• Small: 1–2 Inches (2.5–5 cm)
• Medium: 2.25–3.25 Inches (5.7–8.3 cm)
• Large: 3.5+ Inches (8.9+ cm)

• Tank Level: Hardscape Areas with Moderate to Strong Current

• Activity Level: Primarily Crepuscular and Nocturnal, Frequently Visible While Filter Feeding

• Social Classification: Social Colony Species

• Invertebrate Compatibility: Safe with Dwarf Shrimp, Snails, and Other Peaceful Freshwater Invertebrates

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Recommended Tank Parameters

• Minimum Aquarium Size: 20 Gallons

• Temperature: 75–84°F (24–28.8°C)

• pH: 6.8–7.5

• GH: 6–20 dGH (105–358 ppm)

• KH: 2–15 dKH (35–268 ppm)

• TDS: 150–300 ppm

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Swimming Zone

Unlike most freshwater shrimp that spend their time walking across the substrate, Vampire Shrimp typically position themselves on elevated driftwood, rocks, roots, or filter outflows where water movement is strongest. They frequently remain perched in one location while extending their fan-like feeding appendages into the current to capture microscopic food particles. When not feeding, they often retreat beneath driftwood, rock ledges, or dense vegetation where they rest between feeding sessions.

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Why Buy Vampire Shrimp from Aquatic Arts?

Every Vampire Shrimp is carefully acclimated, observed, and conditioned before being offered for sale. We only ship healthy specimens that are actively feeding and in excellent condition. Whether you're adding a single showpiece shrimp or creating a peaceful colony, our experienced team is committed to helping you succeed before and after your purchase.