Rock/Mountain Shrimp

The Rock Shrimp, also commonly known as the Mountain Shrimp, is a fascinating freshwater invertebrate prized for its unique feeding behaviour, impressive size, and peaceful nature. Unlike traditional algae-grazing shrimp, Rock Shrimp are filter feeders that use specializedS fan-like appendages to capture microscopic food particles directly from flowing water.

Native to fast-moving streams and rivers throughout Southeast Asia, these remarkable shrimps spend much of their time perched on rocks, driftwood, or elevated surfaces, extending their feeding fans into the current to collect food. Their unusual behavior makes them one of the most captivating shrimp species available for freshwater aquariums.

With a larger size than most ornamental shrimp species and a peaceful temperament, Rock Shrimp make excellent additions to community aquariums, river-style tanks, and aquascapes where water movement and natural hardscape play a prominent role.

Their colours can vary from shades of brown, tan, grey, and reddish hues, allowing them to blend naturally into their environment while remaining fascinating to observe.

Why You'll Love Them

• Unique fan-feeding behavior
• Peaceful and community-friendly
• Larger than most freshwater shrimp
• Excellent addition to planted aquariums
• Fascinating natural behaviors
• Ideal for river-style and aquascape aquariums

Care Requirements

• Tank Size: 80L+
• Temperature: 22–28°C
• pH: 6.5–7.8
• Diet: Fine powdered foods, suspended particulate foods, phytoplankton, shrimp foods, and naturally occurring biofilm
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Behaviour & Compatibility

Rock Shrimp are peaceful filter-feeding invertebrates that pose no threat to fish, shrimp, or plants.

Suitable tank mates include:

• Rasboras
• Tetras
• Corydoras
• Gouramis
• Rainbowfish
• Otocinclus
• Other peaceful shrimp species
• Freshwater snails

Because they rely on suspended food particles, they require moderate water flow and regular feeding to thrive.

Aquascaping Notes

Rock Shrimp perform best in aquariums with:

• Moderate to strong water flow
• Rocks and driftwood for perching
• Stable water parameters
• Mature aquariums rich in microorganisms
• Plenty of elevated feeding locations

Creating current-rich areas allows them to display their full natural feeding behaviour, making them a fascinating focal point in planted aquariums and river-style aquascapes.