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Atyopsis moluccensis
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Atyopsis moluccensis

Common Names: Asian Fan Shrimp
Singapore Shrimp
Wood Shrimp
Bamboo Shrimp
Salinity: Freshwater
Distribution: Several countries in Southeast Asia.
Care: Provide a tank of at least 20 gallons. The tank should be well-established and planted with live plants. Hiding places are appreciated, although the Singapore Shrimp is not a shy species and will often be seen during the day. Do not house it with crustacean-eating fish such as puffers, large cichlids, and loaches, because they will usually make short work of this shrimp.

Singapore Shrimp can be kept in groups, though they are slightly territorial among themselves. Due to the fact that they have fan-like appendages instead of claws, they are completely harmless to their tankmates.

Drops in temperature of more than a few degrees can be fatal to the Singapore Shrimp, so use a reliable heater (and remember to plug it back in after water changes). These shrimp are not picky when it comes to water conditions. Water with a pH of about 6.8 to 7.5 and moderate hardness suits it well, though it can adapt to almost any conditions provided as long as the water is clean.
Feeding: The Singapore Shrimp feeds using specialised fan-like appendages near its head to filter small food particles from the water. If kept in a well-established planted tank, there is usually enough suspended particulate matter to feed the shrimp. If, however, it does not appear to be getting enough to eat, a turkey baster may be used to squirt some zoo- and phytoplankton near the shrimp when it is in the feeding position.
Temperature:
22°C - 26°C
72°F - 79°F
Potential Size: Male: 12cm (4.7")
Female: 12cm (4.7")
Comments: This interesting crustacean has only become popular in the hobby within the last several years. It is extremely variable in its coloration, but most specimens are a brownish base color with a lighter stripe down their back. Some specimens have reddish, greenish, or yellow base colors with or without a distinct dorsal stripe. Differing still are some shrimp with a heavily mottled coloration. The Singapore Shrimp's coloration also depends on its surroundings and how it is feeling, and most shrimp become bright red immediately after shedding.

The Singapore Shrimp is easy to sex when mature. Males (pictured) will have much larger and thicker forelegs than the females. In females, the forelegs are about the same size as the second pair of legs. While this shrimp is easy to sex, it is extremely difficult to breed. Brackish water is required to raise the newly hatched larvae. The young exist in a drifting, planktonic state before changing into a miniature adult-like form after several molts.
Image Credit: Cory Addict
Submitted By: Natalie
Contributors: Natalie
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