Best Shrimp Tank Kits (2026): Complete Buyer's Guide
Last updated: February 2026 | 12 min read
Looking for the perfect shrimp tank kit to start your time with shrimp? We've researched dozens of options and gathered insights from the r/shrimptank community to bring you this guide.
Whether you want a ready-to-go all-in-one system or prefer to build your own custom setup, we'll help you choose the right equipment for happy, healthy shrimp.
Quick Picks: Best Shrimp Tank Kits at a Glance
| Kit | Size | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fluval Spec V | 5 gal | Small spaces, beginners | $$$ |
| Aqueon Shrimp & Plant | 7.5 gal | Value seekers | $$ |
| UNS Rimless + DIY | 5-10 gal | Aesthetics | $$$$ |
| Budget Build | 10 gal | Maximum value | $ |
What Makes a Good Shrimp Tank Kit?
Before diving into specific recommendations, let's cover what features matter most for shrimp:
Essential Features
-
Shrimp-Safe Filtration: This is the #1 concern. Baby shrimp (shrimplets) are tiny-about the size of a grain of rice. Standard hang-on-back (HOB) filters will suck them up. You need either:
- A sponge filter (best option)
- An intake sponge cover for HOB/internal filters
- All-in-one tanks with covered intakes
-
Adequate Size: While shrimp have a tiny bioload, larger tanks are more stable. We recommend:
- 5 gallons minimum for beginners
- 10 gallons ideal for breeding colonies
- Larger = more stability = easier success
-
Good Lighting: You'll want live plants (shrimp love them), so decent lighting matters. Look for 6500K-7000K full spectrum lights.
-
Lid or Cover: Shrimp can and will jump, especially when stressed. A lid also reduces evaporation.
What Most Kits Get Wrong
Many aquarium kits are designed for fish, not shrimp. Common issues:
- Overpowered filters: Strong currents stress shrimp
- Exposed filter intakes: Death traps for babies
- Included heaters: Often unnecessary (shrimp prefer cooler temps)
- Small sizes: 2.5 gallon kits are unstable
Best Ready-Made Shrimp Tank Kits
1. Fluval Spec V: Best All-in-One Kit
The Fluval Spec V is consistently recommended by the shrimp keeping community, and for good reason.
What's Included:
- 5 gallon rimless glass tank
- Built-in 3-stage filtration
- Powerful LED light
- Lid
Why Shrimp Keepers Love It:
The Spec V's filter compartment is hidden in the back, giving you a clean look while the light is actually good enough for medium-high light plants. Reddit users praise it regularly:
"I picked up a Fluval Spec V at my Petco, and I've really liked it. The light honestly works really well for medium to higher light plants." - r/shrimptank
Modifications Needed:
- Add a foam block or filter floss to the intake slots (shrimplets can get into the filter compartment)
- Consider adding an airstone for extra oxygenation
Specs:
- Dimensions: 17.2" x 10.6" x 6.3"
- Light: 7500K, 20 LEDs
- Filter: 3-stage with bio, mechanical, chemical media
Pros:
- Premium build quality
- Excellent plant light included
- Clean, modern aesthetics
- Quiet operation
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Filter intake needs modification for shrimplets
- 5 gallons can feel limiting as colony grows
Where to Buy:
Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5): Best overall for shrimp beginners who want quality
2. Aqueon Shrimp & Plant Aquarium Kit: Best Value
Aqueon specifically designed this kit with shrimp keepers in mind, which is refreshing to see from a major brand.
What's Included:
- 7.5 gallon curved-front glass tank
- Internal filter
- LED lighting
- Glass lid
Why It Works for Shrimp:
The 7.5 gallon size hits a sweet spot-larger than most starter kits but still compact. The curved front glass adds visual interest, and the included filter is relatively gentle.
Modifications Needed:
- Add a sponge pre-filter to the intake
- Many keepers swap the filter entirely for a sponge filter
Specs:
- Dimensions: 16" x 8" x 13"
- Curved front panel for better viewing
- Low-profile LED
Pros:
- Specifically marketed for shrimp/plants
- Good tank size
- Reasonable price
- Nice curved glass design
Cons:
- Light is basic (may need upgrade for demanding plants)
- Filter still needs modification
- Stand sold separately
Where to Buy:
Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5): Best balance of price and features
3. Top Fin Shrimp & Plant Oasis: Budget Option
Available at PetSmart, this kit offers an affordable entry point but comes with some caveats based on community feedback.
What's Included:
- 5 gallon tank
- Internal filter
- LED light
- Lid
Real Talk:
This kit gets mixed reviews in the shrimp community. Some keepers have had success, while others report issues:
"I got a Top Fin Shrimp and Plant Oasis for $39.00 then ended up replacing the filter, then the light, then when two batches of shrimp died off on me I replaced the tank completely." - r/shrimptank
Our Honest Assessment:
If you're on a strict budget, this can work with modifications. But many beginners end up spending more replacing components than if they'd bought a better kit upfront.
What You'll Likely Need to Replace/Add:
- Swap the filter for a sponge filter ($10-15)
- Consider upgrading the light for plants ($20-40)
- Add a leveling mat underneath ($10)
Pros:
- Low initial cost (~$40)
- Available in-store at PetSmart
- Compact size
Cons:
- Questionable quality control
- Weak light
- Filter not ideal
- May need multiple upgrades
Where to Buy:
- Available in PetSmart stores
Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5): Okay for very tight budgets, but be prepared to upgrade components
Build Your Own Kit (Recommended Approach)
Here's a secret the shrimp keeping community knows: building your own kit often gives you better results for the same money. You get exactly what you need without paying for things you'll replace anyway.
The Ultimate DIY Shrimp Tank Kit
Here's our recommended shopping list for a complete setup:
The Tank
For beginners: 10 gallon standard tank
- Aqueon 10 Gallon Standard: ~$15-20 (often on sale at Petco during dollar-per-gallon events)
For aesthetics: 5-10 gallon rimless
- UNS 5N Rimless Tank: ~$50-80
- Aqueon Frameless Cube: ~$30-50
The Filter (Most Important!)
Sponge filters are king for shrimp tanks:
- Budget: Aquaneat Sponge Filter: ~$8-12
- Mid-range: Hikari Bacto-Surge: ~$15-20
- Premium: Aquarium Co-Op Coarse Sponge Filter: ~$15-25
You'll also need an air pump:
- Tetra Whisper 10-30: ~$10-15 (quiet and reliable)
- USB Nano Air Pump: ~$8-12 (even quieter, for small tanks)
And airline tubing + check valve:
- Airline Tubing Kit: ~$8
Lighting
For planted shrimp tanks:
- Budget: Nicrew ClassicLED Plus: ~$25-40 (great value, grows plants well)
- Mid-range: Fluval Plant 3.0 Nano: ~$60-80
- Premium: Twinstar LED: ~$100+ (excellent but pricey)
Substrate
Darker substrates make shrimp colors pop:
- For Neocaridina: Fluval Stratum: ~$20-25 for 8.8 lb (active substrate, buffers pH)
- Budget alternative: Black Diamond Blasting Sand: ~$10 for 50 lb (inert, needs rinsing)
- For Caridina: ADA Amazonia: ~$30-40 (required for bee shrimp)
Heater (Optional)
Cherry shrimp prefer 68-75°F. In most homes, you may not need a heater. If your room gets cold:
- Cobalt Aquatics Neo-Therm: ~$40 (most accurate, our top pick)
- Fluval E50 Heater: ~$35
Thermometer
Test Kit (Essential!)
You MUST have a test kit for cycling your tank:
- API Master Test Kit: ~$30-35 (tests ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH)
- API GH & KH Test Kit: ~$12 (important for shrimp!)
Complete DIY Kit Budget Breakdown
Budget Build (~$100-120)
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| 10 gal Aqueon Tank | $15 |
| Aquaneat Sponge Filter | $10 |
| Tetra Whisper Air Pump | $12 |
| Airline + Check Valve | $8 |
| Nicrew ClassicLED | $30 |
| Black Diamond Sand | $10 |
| API Master Test Kit | $32 |
| Total | ~$117 |
Mid-Range Build (~$180-220)
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| UNS 5N Rimless | $60 |
| Hikari Sponge Filter | $18 |
| USB Nano Air Pump | $10 |
| Airline + Check Valve | $8 |
| Nicrew ClassicLED Plus | $35 |
| Fluval Stratum | $25 |
| API Master Test Kit | $32 |
| API GH/KH Kit | $12 |
| Cobalt Neo-Therm | $40 |
| Total | ~$240 |
What About All-in-One Tanks?
All-in-one (AIO) tanks like the Fluval Spec and Waterbox have built-in back filtration compartments. Here's what to know:
Pros of AIO Tanks
- Clean, sleek look
- No visible equipment
- Built-in media chambers
- Usually include decent lights
Cons for Shrimp
- Shrimplets can get into filter chambers
- Often need modification
- Flow can be too strong
- Usually more expensive
If You Choose an AIO
Prevent shrimplet casualties:
- Add filter floss or foam to intake slots
- Check the filter chamber regularly for trapped babies
- Consider adding a sponge pre-filter to the intake
Size Matters: Choosing the Right Gallon Tank
5 Gallon Tanks
Best for: Limited space, single species colonies, desktops
Pros:
- Compact footprint
- Lower startup cost
- Easier to heat (if needed)
Cons:
- Less stability
- Limited growth for colonies
- Parameters swing faster
10 Gallon Tanks
Best for: Most beginners, breeding projects
Pros:
- Excellent stability
- Room for colony growth
- Affordable
- Easy to find equipment
Cons:
- Larger footprint
- More water to maintain
20 Gallon Long
Best for: Serious breeders, multiple color varieties
Pros:
- Maximum stability
- Large colony capacity
- Can divide for multiple colors
- Great viewing area
Cons:
- Significant space needed
- Higher startup cost
- More water changes
Our Recommendation: Start with a 10 gallon if space allows. It offers the best balance of stability and manageability.
Essential Add-Ons for Any Kit
Regardless of which kit or DIY setup you choose, you'll want these items:
Indian Almond Leaves
Shrimp LOVE these. They release tannins that:
-
Provide antifungal benefits
-
Give shrimp a food source (biofilm)
-
Mimic natural environment
-
Slightly lower pH
-
Indian Almond Leaves: ~$10-15 for 50+
Mineral Supplements
If you use RO water or have very soft tap water:
- SaltyShrimp GH/KH+: ~$20-25 (for Neocaridina)
- SaltyShrimp Bee Shrimp GH+: ~$20-25 (for Caridina)
Hides and Hardscape
Shrimp feel secure with hiding spots:
- Cholla Wood: ~$10-15 (shrimp love grazing on it)
- Shrimp Tubes/Caves: ~$8-12
- Dragon Stone: ~$3-5/lb
Plants (Highly Recommended)
Live plants aren't mandatory, but they make a huge difference:
"Get a lot of live plants. IME live plants are the lifeline to keeping parameters stable." - r/shrimptank
Easy beginner plants:
- Java Moss (shrimp's favorite)
- Java Fern
- Anubias
- Water Wisteria
- Guppy Grass
Red Flags: What to Avoid
Tiny Tanks (Under 5 Gallons)
Those cute 2.5 gallon kits? Skip them. Water parameters swing too fast, and you'll struggle to keep shrimp alive.
Powerful Filters
If a kit includes a filter rated for 20+ gallons on a 10 gallon tank, be cautious. Strong currents exhaust shrimp.
Cheap/Generic Kits
No-name kits from random brands often have:
- Poor quality seals (leaks)
- Unreliable electrical components
- Subpar lighting
Stick with established aquarium brands: Fluval, Aqueon, Marineland, UNS.
Kits with Colorful Gravel
That rainbow gravel looks fun, but:
- Bright colors make shrimp colors look washed out
- Painted substrates may leach chemicals
- They scream "beginner tank"
Final Verdict: Which Kit Should You Buy?
If money is no object:
Build a custom setup with a UNS rimless tank, sponge filter, and Fluval Plant 3.0 light. You'll have a stunning tank that will serve you for years.
If you want plug-and-play:
The Fluval Spec V is the best all-in-one option. Add an intake sponge, and you're set.
If you're on a budget:
Build your own kit with a standard 10 gallon tank, sponge filter, and Nicrew light. You'll get better quality for ~$120 than any budget kit offers.
If you need something TODAY:
The Aqueon Shrimp & Plant Kit from your local pet store is a solid choice that won't require extensive modifications.
FAQ
Do I need a heater for a shrimp tank?
Not usually. Cherry shrimp thrive at 68-75°F. If your room stays above 65°F, skip the heater. Shrimp actually prefer slightly cooler temps than tropical fish.
Can I use tap water?
Yes, for Neocaridina (cherry shrimp) if your tap water isn't extremely hard or soft. Always use water conditioner like Seachem Prime.
How long before I can add shrimp?
Your tank needs to cycle first-typically 4-6 weeks. This establishes beneficial bacteria that convert toxic ammonia to less harmful nitrates. Never skip this step!
What's the best starter shrimp?
Red Cherry Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi var. red) are the most forgiving. Start with Sakura or Fire Red grade from a reputable seller.
Ready to Start?
Choose your setup, gather your equipment, and get ready for one of the most rewarding hobbies in the aquarium world. Shrimp keeping is addictive-most of us started with one tank and now have several!
Next Steps:
- Read our Complete Shrimp Tank Setup Guide to learn how to properly cycle and set up your new tank
- Check out our Cherry Shrimp Care Guide for species-specific tips
Happy shrimp keeping! 🦐