Freshwater Shrimp UK: A Complete Guide to Buying, Keeping, and Breeding

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Freshwater Shrimp in the UK: An Overview
3. Popular Freshwater Shrimp Species in the UK
4. Buying Freshwater Shrimp for Sale in the UK
5. Setting Up Your Shrimp Tank
6. Breeding Freshwater Shrimp at Home
7. Maintaining Healthy Shrimp
8. Conclusion

1. Introduction

Freshwater shrimp are fast becoming one of the most popular additions to aquariums in the UK. With their vibrant colours, quirky behaviour, and usefulness in cleaning up algae and waste, they’re ideal for both beginner and experienced aquarists alike. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about keeping freshwater shrimp in the UK, from buying tips and species recommendations to breeding and tank setup.

2. Freshwater Shrimp in the UK: An Overview

The UK has seen a growing interest in freshwater shrimp, particularly among hobbyists who want a low-maintenance yet engaging aquatic pet. Native species exist, but most shrimp found in aquariums come from imported lines of selectively bred shrimp, such as cherry shrimp and crystal shrimp.

These tiny crustaceans offer numerous benefits:

• Natural algae control
• Minimal waste production
• Fascinating group behaviour

However, they are also sensitive to poor water conditions, so keeping them healthy means maintaining a stable and shrimp-friendly environment.

3. Popular Freshwater Shrimp Species in the UK

Here are some of the most common and beginner-friendly freshwater shrimp species available in the UK:

When choosing shrimp, ensure you purchase from reputable UK sellers who guarantee healthy and disease-free stock.

4. Buying Freshwater Shrimp for Sale in the UK

There are multiple ways to buy freshwater shrimp for sale in the UK:

• Online Stores: These often provide the widest selection and convenient delivery options. Make sure the seller offers live arrival guarantees.
• Local Fish Stores (LFS): Great for seeing the shrimp in person and asking advice.
• Aquatic Clubs and Forums: Many hobbyists breed shrimp and offer them for sale or trade.

When buying, look out for:

• Active movement
• Bright colours
• No signs of fungus or parasites

And remember, always acclimate your shrimp slowly to prevent shock.

5. Setting Up Your Shrimp Tank

Creating a proper tank environment is key to success. Here’s a checklist for a basic freshwater shrimp setup:

• Tank Size: Minimum 20 litres for beginners
• Filter: Sponge filter is ideal—gentle and shrimp-safe
• Substrate: Dark sand or shrimp-specific substrates
• Plants: Java moss, anubias, and floating plants offer cover and biofilm
• Heater: Optional, but keeps temperature stable (21–24°C ideal)
• Lighting: Moderate lighting helps plant growth
• Water Parameters:
  • pH: 6.5–7.5
  • GH: 4–8
  • KH: 0–6
  • Nitrate: < 20 ppm

Tip: Avoid using copper-based medications or tap water with high chlorine levels.

6. Breeding Freshwater Shrimp at Home

Breeding freshwater shrimp in the UK is fairly simple with the right conditions:

• Keep water parameters stable
• Feed a varied diet (algae wafers, blanched vegetables, biofilm)
• Provide moss or sponge filters for babies (shrimplets) to hide
• Ensure males and females are present (females are usually larger and more colourful)

Eggs hatch into miniature versions of adults and do not go through a larval stage (except for Amano shrimp). They’ll grow quickly if water quality is high.

7. Maintaining Healthy Shrimp

Healthy shrimp are active, curious, and constantly foraging. Here’s how to keep them in top shape:

• Perform 10–20% weekly water changes
• Don’t overfeed
• Remove uneaten food
• Avoid aggressive fish tank mates (betta, cichlids, etc.)

Monitor water conditions regularly and use test kits to keep everything in range.

8. Conclusion

Keeping freshwater shrimp in the UK is both rewarding and enjoyable. With just a little care and the right setup, these tiny creatures will thrive and even breed in your aquarium. Whether you’re starting with cherry shrimp or exploring exotic species, shrimp keeping is a fun way to expand your aquatic hobby.