Discover the beauty of a self-sustaining ecosystem with this Handcrafted Open Glass Shrimp habitat, home to 10 Hawaiian Red Shrimp or Opae Ula. This large, 6-inch glass sphere offers a balanced, open aquatic environment that supports these unique shrimp several years. This ecosystem requires minimal maintenance, providing a fascinating glimpse into natural aquatic life, perfect for your desktop at home or work.

This high-quality, flat bottom glass sphere includes everything you need to get started:

• Glass Sphere: 6" diameter (15cm), with a 1/2" opening (15mm), and a vented silicone stopper. It holds about 1/2 gallon of water.
• Complete Setup: Includes care instructions, CaribSea Aragonite White Sand or Black Volcanic Rock, brackish water, and a black sea fan for added decoration.
• Feeding: For the first month, start with the included Spirulina food, then let the shrimp thrive naturally on algae and biofilm.

Perfect for any novice aquarist, this sustainable shrimp habitat provides a low-maintenance yet endlessly fascinating view into the world of Hawaiian Red Shrimp.

Once the sphere is established you do not need to feed anymore. This takes only 4 weeks. This shrimp habitat sustains itself for years with only light as an external input. Light allows algae to photosynthesize, producing oxygen and food that the shrimp consume. The shrimp, in turn, release waste, which beneficial bacteria in the rocks break down into nutrients that feed the algae. This balanced cycle between shrimp, algae, and bacteria keeps the ecosystem stable and self-sufficient.

What are Opae Ula?

Opae Ula (Halocaridina rubra), also called Hawaiian Shrimp, Volcano Shrimp, or Red Shrimp, are unique, small shrimp native to Hawaii’s brackish water ponds.

Where do they live?

These shrimp are endemic to the Hawaiian Islands, primarily found in anchialine ponds on the Big Island, Maui, and O’ahu. These ponds contain a blend of ocean saltwater and freshwater from underground lava tubes, creating the brackish water they thrive in.

How big do they grow?

Opae Ula reach a maximum size of about 1/2 inch.

Currently shipping to the US only.