Description
š¦ Meet the Macrobrachium Australiense: The Captivating "Predator" of the Freshwater Shrimp World!
Step beyond the ordinary with the Long-Armed Freshwater Shrimp, a fascinating and larger-than-life invertebrate that brings a touch of wild, predatory grace to your specialized aquarium. Hailing from the rivers of Northern Australia, this species is not your average cleaner shrimpāit's an active, intelligent hunter and an incredible display animal for experienced aquarists.
Witness the ancient dance of survival as it uses its iconic long claws to forage, explore, and command its territory. This is the perfect centerpiece for a species-focused tank.
HIGHLIGHTS:
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Striking & Primitive Appearance:Ā Features remarkably long, slender claws, a translucent body that can display beautiful hues of grey and brown, and prominent, expressive eyes.
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Active & Engaging Behavior:Ā A captivating display animal that is almost always on the move, hunting, and interacting with its environment.
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Expert Scavenger:Ā Helps clean the tank by consuming meaty leftovers and detritus, acting as a unique cleanup crew.
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Breeding Challenge:Ā For the advanced hobbyist, breeding these shrimp in captivity is a rewarding and impressive achievement.
SHRIMP CARE & REQUIREMENTS:
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Scientific Name:Ā Macrobrachium Australiense
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Common Name:Ā Long-Armed Freshwater Shrimp, Australian Freshwater Prawn, Hunter Shrimp
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Origin:Ā Northern Australia
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Tank Size:Ā Minimum 20 gallons for a single specimen due to its territorial nature and size.
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Water Parameters:Ā Pristine, well-oxygenated freshwater. pH: 7.0-7.8, Temperature: 72-82Ā°F (22-28Ā°C). Requires excellent filtration.
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Tank Mates: USE EXTREME CAUTION.Ā This is aĀ predatoryĀ shrimp.Ā Not suitableĀ for community tanks with small fish, dwarf shrimp, or snails. Best kept in a species-only tank or with large, fast-moving, top-dwelling fish.
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Diet:Ā Carnivorous/Omnivorous. Requires protein-rich foods: sinking carnivore pellets, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and small pieces of fish or mussel.
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Adult Size:Ā Can reach up to 6 inches (15 cm) in length.
WHAT YOU GET:Ā One (1) liveĀ Long-Armed Freshwater Shrimp (Macrobrachium Australiense). Size will vary. We ship robust juveniles or sub-adults to ensure you enjoy them for their full lifespan.
Please Note:Ā As a wild-caught specimen, color and pattern can vary. They are masters of camouflage.
ā ļø IMPORTANT KEEPER NOTES & FAQ
Is this shrimp safe with other fish and shrimp?
No.Ā This is the most critical point. The Long-Armed Shrimp is an opportunistic predator. Its natural behavior is to hunt small creatures with its claws. It will see small fish (tetras, guppies), dwarf shrimp (Neocaridina, Caridina), and snails as food. Keeping it with others is done at your own risk.
What is the ideal tank setup?
Provide plenty of hiding spots and visual barriers using driftwood, rock caves, and PVC pipes. This helps reduce territorial stress if keeping multiple individuals (which requires a very large tank). A secure lid is a must as they can be skilled climbers.
Why is it hiding?
This is natural behavior. They are often more active during dawn and dusk (crepuscular). After introduction or before a molt, they will hide for security. After molting, they are vulnerable until their new exoskeleton hardens.
What do I feed it?
While it will scavenge, a dedicated diet of meaty foods is essential for its health and longevity. Offer food directly to it using feeding tongs to ensure it gets enough to eat.
šļø THE ULTIMATE PREDATOR TANK!
Create a stunning Australian riverbed biotope. Use sandy substrate, river stones, and driftwood. This shrimp is the perfect fascinating inhabitant for a tank that showcases the raw beauty of nature's food chain.
š LIVE ARRIVAL GUARANTEED:Ā This is a hardy but sensitive species. We package with the utmost care using breathable bags, specialized insulation, and a secure box. Please be prepared to acclimate it immediately upon arrival. Review our live arrival policy for complete details.
Ready for an advanced invertebrate challenge? Add the formidable Long-Armed Shrimp to your cart!
