⚠️ Level: Medium — requires a spacious aquarium with good flow and suitable perching spots.

The African Fan Shrimp (Atya gabonensis) is an impressive filter feeder that, with its imposing size and beautiful fan-like claws, is a true eye-catcher in any large freshwater aquarium. This robust shrimp from West Africa can grow up to 12 cm and displays fascinating filter feeding behavior as it catches food particles in strategic spots in the current.

🐠 Animal Specifications

🏪 Collection & warranty

• Exclusively for collection at our store in Heinkenszand — this animal is not shipped
• Feel free to inspect the shrimp carefully in the store when collecting
• When collecting, feel free to ask for advice on care or the composition of your aquarium

✂️ Care

Provide good current and elevated perching spots such as large rocks, thick roots, or decorations where it can unfurl its impressive fans to catch food. Regularly supplement with finely ground fish food, spirulina, or special filter food — due to its larger size, it needs more food than smaller shrimp species. It is nocturnal, so you will primarily see it actively filtering in the evenings and at night.

🐠 Combination tip

Peaceful in nature and suitable for community aquariums with larger fish. Due to its size, it is not suitable for nano-aquariums or combination with aggressive species.

❓ Frequently asked questions

How large does this shrimp get?
Up to 12 cm — one of the largest freshwater shrimp you can keep.

Why don't I see it during the day?
The African Fan Shrimp is nocturnal. During the day, it often hides; in the evening and at night, it becomes active and starts filtering.

Is this shrimp suitable for a community aquarium?
Yes, it is peaceful and combines well with larger, calm fish species.

Do you have another question? Feel free to visit our store — we are happy to help you make the right choice for your aquarium.