Plume Shrimp – Leander plumosus | Unusual Marine Aquarium Shrimp

Plume Shrimp – Leander plumosus

Meet the Extraordinary Donald Duck Shrimp!

Looking for something truly unusual for your marine aquarium? The Plume Shrimp (Leander plumosus), also known as the Donald Duck Shrimp, is a fascinating little crustacean with an appearance unlike almost any other ornamental shrimp. Its most distinctive feature is an extraordinary elongated, feathered snout that resembles a duck's bill! Combined with its delicate transparent legs, orange-brown body, white markings and unusual posture, this charming shrimp makes a wonderful addition to a carefully maintained marine aquarium.

Natural Habitat & Behaviour

Originating from the tropical Indo-Pacific, Leander plumosus inhabits coral reefs, rubble areas, seagrass beds and sheltered rocky environments.

Growing to approximately 3cm, this small shrimp spends much of its time among rocks, crevices and other sheltered areas. It is generally shy, particularly under bright lighting, and may become more active during the evening.

Its unusual movements and elaborate feather-like structures make it especially interesting to observe, particularly in smaller aquariums where its intricate details can be appreciated.

Aquarium Requirements

The Plume Shrimp is best kept in a mature, stable marine aquarium with plenty of live rock, small caves and sheltered hiding places.

A well-established nano reef or peaceful larger aquarium can provide suitable accommodation. Aquarium size should be determined by water stability, available shelter and tank mates rather than the shrimp's small size alone.

Feeding & Nutrition

Despite its unusual feathered appearance, the Plume Shrimp should not be treated as an exclusively filter-feeding species.

Offer a varied selection of suitably sized marine foods, including:

• Finely chopped mysis shrimp

• Enriched frozen brine shrimp

• Small marine crustacean foods

• Fine sinking marine pellets

• Naturally occurring small food particles

Feed small portions regularly and ensure food reaches the shrimp, particularly when housed with faster-feeding fish.

Temperament & Compatibility

Leander plumosus is generally regarded as a peaceful shrimp and may be suitable for carefully selected reef aquariums. Its small size makes it vulnerable to predatory fish, including hawkfish, larger wrasses, groupers and other crustacean-eating species. Peaceful fish and non-aggressive invertebrates are preferable companions. Coral compatibility appears promising, although long-term aquarium observations remain limited. Avoid housing with animals likely to attack or consume small shrimp.

Acclimatisation & Ongoing Care

Like other marine ornamental shrimps, Leander plumosus is sensitive to sudden changes in salinity and water chemistry. Carefully match aquarium conditions and acclimatise gradually using an appropriate invertebrate acclimatisation procedure. Provide hiding places during moulting, when the shrimp is particularly vulnerable. Never expose marine shrimps to copper-based medications, and maintain excellent water quality.

Why Choose the Plume Shrimp?

For aquarists seeking something genuinely different, the Plume Shrimp offers a combination of unusual anatomy, fascinating behaviour and delicate natural beauty. Its remarkable duck-billed appearance makes it a talking point and an especially rewarding subject for close observation.

Discover the extraordinary Leander plumosus at Rock ’N’ Critters – a distinctive addition for marine invertebrate enthusiasts!