Whisker Shrimp

Macrobrachium lanchesteri

Also known as: Grass Shrimp, Lanchester's Freshwater Prawn, Glass Shrimp

A hardy, clear-bodied prawn with long claws, often sold mixed in with ghost shrimp.

Water

Freshwater

Temperature

72–82°F

pH

6.5–8

Hardness

5–15 dGH

Max size

2 in

Min tank

10 gal

Temperament

Semi-aggressive

Social

Groups

Swim level

Bottom

Diet

Omnivore

Care level

Beginner

Lifespan

1-2 years

Breeding

Egg-layer

Suitability

Common

Origin

Southeast Asia, Thailand and Malaysia

Larger and more predatory than ghost shrimp, it will catch small fish, fry, and dwarf shrimp. Keep with medium sized peaceful fish and provide plenty of cover. Unlike most prawns its young develop fully in fresh water, so it can breed in the aquarium.