There
are many types of shrimps and snails species available to the aquarium
industry. Some are purely ornamental, while others (namely neocardina
and cardinia species for shrimps and Neritina species for snails) are
kept primarily as detritus and/or algae consumers. Of the many species
found to be useful to the aquaria hobby, the Japanese Marsh Shrimp -
better known as the Yamato / Amano Shrimp is by far the most popular
algae eater in the hobby. Neritina snails on the other hand, are not
far behind, they will rid your rocks, driftwood and equipment of algae
as if they were brand new... even Black Beard Algae (BBA) doesn't stand
a chance. Most freshwater shrimp and snail species are tolerant of salinity
and pH ranges but are very sensitive to ammonia/ammonium and heavy metal
concentrations.
For the majority of shrimps a neutral and medium hardness water is generally
suitable. Some species of shrimp do have preferences for slightly acidic
or moderately alkaline waters though a range of 5.6 to 7.5 pH and hardness
levels around 5-10 gH. Temperature, likewise has to be kept below 30C.
When changing water, ensure that chlorine, chloramine and heavy metals
are removed with dechlorinators prior to adding to the tank. It is highly
recommended not to use any hot tap water when performing water changes.
It should be noted that if keeping these shrimps and/or snails, copper
based water additives or medicines should never be used.
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