Can Axolotls Live with Shrimp?

Abdul Wasay Khatri | Administrator

Last updated: 8 January, 2026

Axolotls can technically live with shrimp, but the shrimp will likely become food. Axolotls are carnivorous predators that will hunt and eat any shrimp small enough to fit in their mouths, which includes most freshwater aquarium shrimp species. However, some aquarists successfully keep larger shrimp varieties like Amano shrimp or Ghost shrimp with axolotls as occasional tank mates or “cleanup crew” members, accepting that some shrimp will be eaten. If you want a sustainable shrimp population, housing them with axolotls is not recommended.

Understanding the Predator Prey Dynamic

Axolotls are natural hunters with a strong feeding response to movement. In the wild, their diet consists largely of small aquatic invertebrates, worms, insects, and crustaceans exactly what freshwater shrimp represent. When an axolotl detects movement from a shrimp, its instinct is to strike and consume it. This isn’t aggression; it’s simply normal feeding behavior.

Smaller shrimp species like Cherry shrimp, Crystal Red shrimp, or juvenile Ghost shrimp are extremely vulnerable and will be hunted relentlessly. These species rarely survive long-term in an axolotl tank. Even if they initially hide effectively, axolotls are patient and will eventually catch them during nighttime foraging sessions.

Larger shrimp varieties fare somewhat better. Amano shrimp (up to 2 inches) and adult Ghost shrimp are faster, more aggressive, and big enough that some axolotls may ignore them at least temporarily. However, there’s no guarantee of safety. Some axolotls have stronger prey drives than others, and even large shrimp may eventually be targeted, especially during molting when they’re vulnerable and unable to escape quickly.

The success of keeping shrimp with axolotls often depends on providing extensive hiding spots with plants, rocks, and decorations that create shrimp-only spaces. Dense vegetation and small crevices can help some shrimp survive, but you should expect losses.

Practical Considerations for Mixed Tanks

If you decide to attempt keeping shrimp with axolotls, consider these factors. Temperature compatibility is actually favorable both axolotls and most freshwater shrimp prefer cooler water between 60-72°F, making environmental requirements compatible. Water quality needs also align well, as both require clean, well-filtered water with low ammonia and nitrate levels.

The primary challenge is simply accepting that shrimp are expendable. Many aquarists intentionally add Ghost shrimp or Amano shrimp as a “cleanup crew” to eat leftover food and algae, knowing the axolotl will periodically snack on them. This approach works if you’re comfortable continuously replacing shrimp or breeding them separately as feeder stock.

Breeding shrimp in an axolotl tank is nearly impossible. Baby shrimp are tiny and will be eaten immediately. If you want a self-sustaining shrimp colony, they absolutely need their own dedicated tank without predators.

Some axolotl owners report that well-fed axolotls show less interest in hunting shrimp, but this isn’t reliable. Feeding behavior is instinctual, and even satiated axolotls may still hunt opportunistically when they detect movement.

Quick FAQ

Which shrimp species survive best with axolotls?
Large Amano shrimp and adult Ghost shrimp have the best chance due to their size and speed, but survival isn’t guaranteed.

Will my axolotl choke on large shrimp?
Axolotls have fairly large mouths and can consume surprisingly big prey. Only the largest adult shrimp might be too big to eat.

Can I breed shrimp in an axolotl tank?
No. Baby shrimp are immediately eaten, making sustainable breeding impossible in a shared tank.

Do shrimp help keep the axolotl tank clean?
Yes, shrimp eat algae, leftover food, and detritus, making them useful cleanup crew members if you’re willing to replace them periodically.

Are shrimp safe nutritionally as axolotl food?
Yes. Shrimp are actually nutritious for axolotls and are sometimes intentionally fed as part of a varied diet.

Abdul Wasay Khatri
Administrator
Abdul Wasay is the founder and lead author of Axolotl Portal, a trusted site for axolotl care. He spent almost nine months learning about axolotls, including their tanks, feeding, water care, and common health problems. His knowledge comes from trusted vets, research, and real experience from long term axolotl owners. All Posts by