Atya gabonensis facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Atya gabonensis |
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Atyidae
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Atya
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A. gabonensis
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| Atya gabonensis Giebel, 1875
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The Atya gabonensis is a unique type of freshwater shrimp. It comes from rivers and streams in West Africa. This shrimp has many common names, like the African fan shrimp, African filter shrimp, vampire shrimp, and blue rhino shrimp.
This shrimp is an omnivorous filter feeder. This means it eats both plants and animals by filtering tiny particles from the water. It uses special feathery claws to catch its food. The Atya gabonensis can grow quite large, up to about 15 centimeters (6 inches) long.
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Where Do African Fan Shrimp Live?
The Atya gabonensis is found in West Africa. Its home ranges from Senegal all the way to the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Sometimes, people mistakenly think these shrimp are found in South America. However, those are usually different types of shrimp, like Atya scabra.
Caring for African Fan Shrimp in Aquariums
Many people enjoy keeping African fan shrimp as pets in their aquariums. Even though they are sometimes called "vampire shrimp," they are very peaceful. They get along well with other fish and shrimp in a community tank.
What Do They Need to Be Happy?
- Hiding Spots: These shrimp need places to hide. This is especially important when they are molting. Molting is when they shed their old shell to grow a new, larger one.
- Water Flow: They need a moderate to strong water current. This allows them to sit and filter food from the water easily.
- Food: African fan shrimp are filter feeders. They eat tiny bits of food floating in the water. If your tank is very new, you might need to give them extra food. You can use finely ground fish food or spirulina powder. If you see them walking around the bottom and sifting sand, it means they are hungry. They are not getting enough food from filtering.
- Water Conditions: They prefer water with a pH between 6.5 and 7.8. The water temperature should be between 23 and 29 degrees Celsius (74 and 84 degrees Fahrenheit).
Keeping Them Safe
Like most invertebrates, African fan shrimp are sensitive to many fish medications. Copper is especially harmful and can be deadly to them. It is also important to keep the water clean. High levels of ammonia and nitrite can make them sick.
Why Do Their Colors Change?
The color of an African fan shrimp can vary a lot. They can be creamy white, rusty brown, or even a deep blue. Many people believe that the water conditions affect their color. For example, hard water might make them turn blue. These shrimp are known to change their color several times within a single year!
