How To Acclimate Shrimp

Shrimp’s sensitivity makes them both an interesting and challenging addition to any reef tank. Often, what happens is that they’re introduced to a new tank too quickly and end up dying soon after.

Getting ready to add them to your display tank should be like preparing for a special guest. You want everything to be just right. So, here’s how I make sure the process goes smoothly.

Before You Begin

Shrimp are delicate creatures, so you should:

• Test Your Water: Before you do anything, double-check that your display tank’s water parameters are in check.
• Avoid harmful treatments: Stay away from dips (pest and freshwater) and copper medications. They can be lethal to shrimp.
• Be cautious with water changes: Drastic shifts in water parameters can shock your shrimp.
• Handle gently: Use care when moving them to prevent any injury.

I always use the drip acclimation method because shrimp are incredibly sensitive. A slow introduction to their new home helps them adjust without harm.

Step-by-Step Drip Acclimation Process

Timing is everything. Make sure all your equipment is set up at home before you head out to purchase your shrimp. Planning when you’ll start the acclimation process makes sure that you’re not rushed and can give it the attention it needs.

With everything prepared, you’re set for a successful acclimation process.

During the entire process, dim or turn off the lights in your tank. It will calm the existing tank mates and will reduce stress for your shrimp when you finally add it.

Step 1: Transfer Shrimp to Acclimation Container

It’s time to move your shrimp into an acclimation container. I find it helpful to place the entire bag in the container and then cut off the top.

You don’t want a container that’s too big because when you take off the top, the bag will relax to fill the container.

This method is gentle and avoids any sudden temperature changes or stress that could happen if you just dump them in.

Step 2: Set Up the Drip Line

Now, to set up your drip line, you’ll need some airline tubing. Create a siphon from your tank to the acclimation container using clips to secure both ends—one at your tank and one at the container.

Attach an airline tube valve at the container end so you can control how fast or slow it drips. Adjust it so you get a nice, slow flow—around 2-4 drips per second should do it.

Step 3: Drip Acclimation

With everything set up, let that drip continue until you’ve doubled the water volume in your container. For most situations, aim for a mix of half original bag water and half tank water.

If you’re dealing with particularly sensitive species, though, go further until you have just 25% bag water left compared to 75% tank water.

Expect this part of the process to take anywhere from one to two hours, depending on how fast it’s dripping.

Step 4: Monitor Shrimp Behavior

Keep an eye on your shrimp throughout this whole procedure! Watch for any signs of stress or discomfort—they might tell you if something’s off before it’s too late.

If needed, adjust that drip rate to a slower rate based on how they’re reacting.

Step 5: Transfer Shrimp to the Tank

Finally! Use a fine net—or better yet—your hand (wearing gloves is wise) when transferring them into their new home in your reef tank—but keep air exposure as minimal as possible during transit!

Help them reach rocks or hiding places quickly where they’ll feel safe settling down initially after all these changes!

Step 6: Dispose of Acclimation Water

Don’t pour the acclimation water it back into your tank since doing so risks contamination issues like parasites, diseases, or god for bid the plague that is Bryopsis (it doesn’t take much to get started in your tank).

After Adding the Shrimp to Your Reef Tank

One of the first things you might notice is their curiosity. It’s a really good sign if they start exploring and scavenging around. This means they’re getting comfortable in their new surroundings. But keep an eye on them.

Wait! Don’t panic if your shrimp simply disappears into your rockwork. They may need a day or two to get adjusted and understand where they are and who they’re with.

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Watch out for any signs of stress or aggression from the existing tank mates. Sometimes, fish or other invertebrates can be a bit territorial when newcomers arrive. If you see any chasing or nipping, it might be time to consider rearranging some elements in your tank to create more hiding spots for your shrimp.

To further reduce stress, keep your aquarium lights dimmed initially. Bright lights can be overwhelming for new additions like shrimp who are still getting used to their environment.

Expected Behaviors After Introducing Shrimp to a New Aquarium:

• Cleaner Shrimp: They may initially hide but will soon start exploring the tank, set up cleaning stations, and interact with fish by offering cleaning services.
• Anemone Shrimp: Quickly seek out anemones or corals to host with, staying close to their chosen host and using camouflage to blend in.
• Pistol Shrimp: Begin burrowing and rearranging the substrate to build tunnels, form symbiotic relationships with goby fish, and produce audible clicking sounds with their specialized claw.

Post-acclimation care is all about consistency and observation. Make sure you’re regularly checking on your shrimp’s health and activity levels. Are they still exploring? Are they eating well? These are positive signs that they’re settling in nicely.