Vampire Shrimp (Atya gabonensis)

Commonly known as the Vampire Shrimp (Atya gabonensis), this filter feeding crustacean is also called the Viper Shrimp, Gabon Shrimp, African Filter Shrimp, or the Cameroon Shrimp. The Vampire Shrimp is fairly rare and deserves much more attention for its variable, attractive coloration and unique behaviors. These shrimp prefer higher water flows to help filter feed for particulate food matter, and when kept together will often congregate at the head of the current! They tend to coexist well with other peaceful freshwater species, including non-aggressive fish and Bamboo Shrimp.