Shrimp+Gravel Siphon= Empty tank?

BioHazard · Mar 24, 2009

I haven't gotten them yet, but I'm going to be stocking my 5 gallon with cherry shrimp. As I was cleaning the gravel today, I wondered... Are they going to be sucked up by my gravel siphon? Will they move, or just sit there? Every once in a while, I've siphoned up a snail, but they are easy enough to toss back in. Would the shrimp be hurt?
I just like to plan ahead, so I'd like to know how you guys clean your gravel without creating a shrimpy death whirlpool.
:help:

KatelynC · Mar 24, 2009

i just try and avoid them, usually they do get out of the way if i get too close.

snoopy65 · Mar 24, 2009

I use a airline tube in my shrimp tank and vac into a white bucket. I check for itty bitty shrimp in the bucket before dumping the water.

msjinkzd · Mar 24, 2009

i use a small siphon or airline tubing, if using a larger siphon, i put an aquaclear sponge int eh siphon tube to kkeep the shrimp out. If you notice you are suckign up shrimp, pinch off the hose and they will swim out. check your bucket before dumping it

KatelynC · Mar 24, 2009

yeah sorry should have specified that i don't have itty bitty babies yet though!!

BioHazard · Mar 24, 2009

Sounds good! I was afraid they might be super easy to suck up and get killed if they were, but it doesnt' sound like I'll have too much trouble.

Hollygirl · Mar 24, 2009

I have been having a problem with my shrimp all coming to investigate the tubing. They are a curious little group. I have been using airline tubing. It takes a long time but I know the shrimp won't get hurt.

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Shrimp+Gravel Siphon= Empty tank?

BioHazard

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KatelynC

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snoopy65

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msjinkzd

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KatelynC

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BioHazard

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Hollygirl

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