Gabon shrimp (Atya gabonensis)
A unique and fascinating filter shrimp for larger freshwater aquariums

The Gabon shrimp is an impressive and peaceful freshwater shrimp from Africa known for its special way of eating. Unlike normal shrimp, it uses its fan-like "hands" to filter small particles directly from the water stream. This makes it a very interesting and different feature in the aquarium.

The species can change color depending on the environment, mood and water values ​​and often appears in blue, grey, brownish or almost purple tones.

Information

• Scientific name:Atya gabonensis

• Origin:Africa

• Temperature:20–29°C

• Size:Up to approx. 12–15 cm

• Difficulty level:Means

• Life:Several years with good care

Characteristics

✔ Fascinating filter eating behavior
✔ Peaceful and calm species
✔ Perfect for larger pet aquariums
✔ Unique appearance and strong body
✔ Can change color depending on environment and well-being
✔ Active mainly in the evenings and nights

Aquarium & environment

Gabon shrimp thrive best in stable and well-oxygenated aquariums with good water movement. Because they filter food out of the water, they like to seek out places with stronger currents where particles pass by.

The aquarium should contain:

• Roots and rocks to hide among

• Areas with good water flow

• Stable water quality

• Plenty of oxygen

• Calm fellow residents

Due to the size, a larger aquarium is recommended.

Feed & nutritional needs

The Gabon shrimp is a filter feeder and needs finely divided food that can float in the water.

Suitable feed:

• Powder feed for filter shrimp

• Finely ground shrimp feed

• Spirulina powder

• Microorganisms and biofilm

• Frozen feed in finely divided form

It is important that the food reaches the water stream so that the shrimp can filter it naturally. If the aquarium is too "clean" without suspended particles, extra feeding may be needed regularly.

Water values

For best comfort, we recommend:

• Temperature: 20–29°C

• pH: about 6.5–7.5

• Stable and oxygen-rich water

• Moderate to strong circulation

Important to think about

Gabon shrimp are very peaceful and should not be kept with aggressive fish. They also need calm when caressing as they are sensitive immediately after molting.

With the right environment, the Gabon shrimp becomes a very special and valued inhabitant of the aquarium – both beautiful, different and exciting to observe.