How to Raise Shrimp in a Tank

Purchase your shrimp from a trusted supplier or from an online store with the capability of shipping live shrimp. Select shrimp that are at least 30 days old, but not older than 60 days, as this age will be ideal for environment transitioning.

Locate or purchase a large tank or container that is appropriate in size to the number of shrimp you will raise. Select a tank or number of shrimp that allows 1 gallon of water for every two shrimp, as this will be the optimal ratio for healthy shrimp. Use a fish aquarium for small quantities of shrimp, as this will be the most effective method.

Fill the tank with dechlorinated water. Install a filter in the tank that is appropriate in size to the number of gallons that it will need to clean. Line the bottom of the tank with small rocks. Place a few small plants in the tank to provide an adaptable and natural-feeling environment for the shrimp to thrive.

Install an aquarium heater to maintain an optimal shrimp-raising water temperature. Set your aquarium heater so that it will maintain the water between 76 and 88 degrees F. Check your water temperature with a thermometer on a daily basis, as your shrimp will not survive outside this temperature range.

Place your water-filled bags of shrimp in the tank. Allow the bags to float in the tank over night, as this will allow your shrimp an opportunity to acclimate to the temperature of the tank without killing them due to temperature shock. Release the shrimp from the bags and into the tank the next day. Monitor the shrimp and temperatures carefully until you feel comfortable the shrimp are adapting well to the tank.

Place shrimp food in the tank one time per day. Use the appropriate amount of food as directed by the food label in relation to the number of shrimp. Check the temperature of your water often to ensure the water heater is working properly.