Re: shrimps

To: Aquatic-Plants at actwin_com
Subject: Re: shrimps
From: Neil Frank <nfrank at nando_net>
Date: Thu, 03 Oct 1996 06:35:25 -0400


>Date: Wed, 02 Oct 1996 10:27:57 -0400
>From: "K & A, P.A." <kapa at netrunner_net>
>Subject: Response to Shrimp Q
>
>The shrimp Mr. Amano uses is known in Japan as the Yamato Numa Ebi
>shrimp or Cardina japonica.  It is very rarely available in the U.S. 
>Many of us are trying to convince some importer to bring some in.  When
>we do, we will definitely post something up.
>
>The Wood Shrimp is most definitely a filter feeder and will not help
>with anything but an algae bloom.  The Ghost Shrimp does graze on algae,
>but very lightly.  Additionally, they have a short lifespan so I have
>not used them much.
>
>Hope it helps.
>
>Art Giacosa
>Miami, Florida
>
>

Just like the ghost shrimps, the Caridina japonica must be used in large
numbers to be effective to control algae. They do have 2 advantages,
however, (1) they are MUCH more attractive than the ghost shrimps indiginous
to the US and (2) they are longer lived. I got mine when I was in Japan last
December and after some initial mortality, their population has been very
stable. Unless the prices become reasonable, I think that they may only be
cost-efficient in small aquariums (<40 liters). After reviewing my
experiences with Amano, we decided that shrimp density of 1 per 4 liter (1
per gallon) is needed. For short term hair algae control, the more invisible
ghost shrimps are a very reasonable alternative. More about this in the next
issue of TAG and an upcoming issue of FAMA.

My local shop has been unable to find an East coast supplier of wood shrimps
(also called Singapore shrimp). Can someone find the name of an importer or
wholesaler who is bringing them in. Thanks.

Neil


Neil Frank, TAG editor    Aquatic Gardeners Association    Raleigh, NC USA