Shrimp population control in a 10gal??

[lilsd]

I have a 10 gallon planted tank with about 10 neo shrimp, 12 chili rasboras and a somewhat out of control population rams horn snails. I’ve been slowly getting the snail population back into check by trapping and removing them, but it’s been an ongoing battle. Everyone seems happy and peaceful, the shrimp and chilis actually interact quite a bit and they seem to like each other! I got the chili rasboras with the intention that they would keep the shrimp population in check, and eat babies but not bother adults. Well today I was looking closely at the tank and I noticed A LOT of nearly microscopic baby shrimp…. And the chilis didn’t seem to have any interest in them whatsoever. Now I’m worried that the shrimp population is going to get out of hand too…… help!!!

can I add a slightly bigger fish that might eat some of the tiny shrimp? Maybe a few CPDs? Would that be overstocked for a 10 gallon? Or do I just need to feed the chilis less? Right now I’m feeding 5-6 days per week, a mix of flake food and frozen baby brine shrimp. Would love to hear thoughts or suggestions from folks more experienced than myself. Thanks in advance!

 

[gwand]

The shrimp population explosion is not linear. It will plateau by itself.

 

[Colin_T]

Reduce the amount of food going into the tank. Less food means the fish will be a bit hungrier and might eat the baby shrimp. And less food means the shrimp and snails won't have as much to eat and will be less willing to reproduce. They will still breed but theoretically, not as much.

You could also see if the local pet shop is willing to take excess shrimp and snails off your hands in exchange for fish, plants or something fish related.

If you have another aquarium containing fish, you could put some of the shrimp in that tank.

 

[MaloK]

Cherry shrimps are one of a kind. In a Shrimp only tank they are very difficult. In a community tank just hope a good number becomes big enough... Seeing many babies doesn't mean much, even in a shrimp only tank.