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Bumblebee shrimp
Bumblebee shrimp
Origin
Central America
Habitat Size
20-50 Liters
Water Type
Fresh Water
Water Temperature
22º-26ºC
Cost in India
₹50 - ₹100
Size
1.5 - 2 inches (Nano)
Diet
Omnivore
by Happy Pet TeamUpdated on 29 Oct 2025
Bumblebee Shrimp (Caridina sp.) Introduction
Bumblebee Shrimp is also known as Gnathophyllum americanum, . It is known for their alternating bands of yellow or white and black (sometimes with orange highlights on legs or tail. The shrimp is gaining popularity among aquarium hobbyists because of their interesting behaviour, beauty, & less maintenance. It is native to shallow reef environments across the Indo-Pacific (with reports also from the Caribbean and Western Atlantic).
What is the Size of Bumblebee Shrimp?
The Bumblebee shrimp size is 1 inch (≈ 2.5 cm).
Life Expectancy of Bumblebee Shrimp
This shrimp can live up to 2 to 3 years. Its lifespan greatly depends on water quality, diet, and stress factors.
Price of Bumblebee Shrimp?
It can find Bumblebee Shrimp at local aquarium stores and online shops, priced around ₹250–₹400.
Best Compatible Tank Mates-
- Other small, peaceful invertebrates (tiny crabs, ornamental shrimps).
- Non-aggressive, small reef fish (if they cannot swallow or bully the shrimp).
- Coral frags, sponges, and live rocks provide habitat and hiding places.
Avoid Pairing with-
- Aggressive species or fish with strong territorial or hunting behaviour.
- Larger predatory fish that can eat small inverts or mistook shrimp for food.
- High nitrate or poor water quality environments which stress shrimp.
- Reef inhabitants which depend heavily on echinoderms (since the shrimp may feed on their tube feet) if kept together.
Characteristics
Temperament
Aggressive
Friendly
Compatibility with other fishes
Not Friendly
Super Friendly
Habitat Size
Small
Large
Bumblebee Shrimp Tank & Habitat Requirements
Initial Setup Cost
₹3,000 - ₹6,000
Water Temperature
22º -26ºC
Water Type
Fresh Water
PH Level
6.5 - 7.5
Given below are the habitat requirements of Bumblebee Shrimp.
Parameter | Ideal Range / Details |
Essential Equipment
Aquarium tank
Water filter
Heater
Light
Substrate
Decor
Bumblebee Shrimp Dietary Needs
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹50 - ₹ 100
Refer to the table below to find out about the Bumblebee shrimp diet.
Food Type | Examples |
Health
Common Health Issues
White spot / ick
Ammonia poisoning
Fungal infections
Bacterial infections
Parasitic infections
Columnaris (cotton wool-like growth on the skin)
Signs of good health
Active
Bright coloration
Good apetite
Signs of sickness
Loss of appetite
Lethargic behaviour
Frequent hiding
Dull coloring
Tattered fins
Given below is the health and care requirement that must be met.
- Water Quality: Maintain stable parameters. Make sure there is minimum fluctuation in salinity, temperature, pH, & nitrates.
- Supplementation: Elements like iodine, calcium, and trace minerals help with healthy molting.
- Bumblebee Shrimp Reef Safe: Generally reef safe, but caution if keeping with delicate echinoderms whose tubefeet may be picked at.
Prerequisites for a Fish
Adequate tank space
Cleanliness
Effort & commitment
Enriching Environment
Written by
Happy Pet TeamAuthor
Team Happy Pet is a passionate collective of pet experts, enthusiasts, and advocates dedicated to sharing trusted and insightful content.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How big do Bumblebee Shrimp get?
Bumblebee Shrimp usually grow up to 2-3 cm (0.8-1.2 inches) in length.
How long do Bumblebee Shrimp live?
They have a lifespan of about 1.5-2 years with proper care and stable water parameters.
What is the ideal tank size for a Bumblebee Shrimp?
A minimum 10-20 litre tank (2.5-5 gallons) is recommended, though larger tanks provide more stable conditions.
What do Bumblebee Shrimp eat?
They are omnivores, feeding on biofilm, algae, blanched vegetables, and occasional protein sources like daphnia or brine shrimp
Can Bumblebee Shrimp live with fish?
Yes, but only with small, peaceful fish. Avoid aggressive or predatory species that may see shrimp as food.