Advice On Fan Shrimps

[denzil1nil]

I went to my lfs (Wharf Aquatics)a few weeks ago and saw some large brown coloured fan shrimps. Im not sure of the exact species but can anyone give me some general information on keeping these as I would like some in my community tank if they are suitable.

 

[adam98150]

I went to my lfs (Wharf Aquatics)a few weeks ago and saw some large brown coloured fan shrimps. Im not sure of the exact species but can anyone give me some general information on keeping these as I would like some in my community tank if they are suitable.

From your description it sounds like bamboo shrimp (also known as vampire shrimp). They usually reach 4 inches and are totally harmless to fish, although if threatened they can use their fan appendages as offensive weapons (by closing them and creating a point). They hang around filters and are fairly inactive. They need a reasonably mature tank since they're filter feeders, otherwise food will be scarce. They range in colour from brown to red (slight green tint is not uncommon).