✦ LIVE ARRIVAL GUARANTEED
✦ FREE SHIPPING OVER $100
✦ SHRIMP THAT LIVE 20 YEARS
✦ WILD-STRAIN HAWAIIAN OPAE ULA
✦ LIVE ARRIVAL GUARANTEED
1 1

10 Opae Ula | Halocaridina rubra | Volcano Red Shrimp

10 Opae Ula | Halocaridina rubra | Volcano Red Shrimp

$29.99 USD
$39.99 USD $29.99 USD
Sale Sold out
Live Arrival Guarantee
Free shipping for orders over $100
30-Day Returns
Add Heat Pack for Cold Weather

Limited Stock Available
  • Long-Living Shrimp
  • Self-Sustaining Ecosystems
  • Hawaiian Native Species
View full details

Product Details

Descriptions

Opae ula, also known as Hawaiian red shrimp or volcanic shrimp, are a species of small shrimp that are native to Hawaii. They are typically found in the shallow tidal pools of the Hawaiian Islands, where they thrive in the brackish water that results from the mixing of freshwater and seawater.

Opae ula have a distinctive red coloration, which is a result of their high levels of hemocyanin, a copper-containing protein that helps carry oxygen in their blood. They have a relatively long lifespan for a shrimp, with some individuals living up to 20 years in the wild.

Opae ula are highly adaptable and can survive in a wide range of conditions, including low-oxygen environments and high levels of acidity. They are also capable of reproducing asexually, which means that a single individual can start a new colony.

Opae ula have become popular among aquarium enthusiasts, and are often kept in small, self-contained ecosystems called "pico reefs." These setups typically consist of a small aquarium or container filled with brackish water, sand, rocks, and plants, and require minimal maintenance. Opae ula are low-maintenance pets and do not require feeding, as they can survive on the microorganisms that naturally grow in their environment.

Overall, opae ula are fascinating and unique creatures that have a special place in Hawaiian culture and natural history.

Overview

The Opae Ula (Halocaridina rubra), also known as the Hawaiian Volcano Red Shrimp, is a fascinating species native to the anchialine pools of Hawaii. Renowned for their vibrant red coloration, remarkable longevity, and low-maintenance care requirements, these unique shrimp are ideal for anyone looking to create a beautiful self-sustaining aquatic ecosystem.

This colony of 10 Opae Ula shrimp provides the perfect foundation for establishing a thriving habitat. Unlike many freshwater shrimp species, Opae Ula flourish in brackish water environments and can live for decades when kept in stable conditions. Their active behavior and ability to reproduce naturally make them a rewarding addition to any ecosystem jar, nano tank, or shrimp habitat.

Key Benefits

  • Includes 10 healthy Hawaiian Volcano Red Shrimp
  • Known to live up to 20 years or longer
  • Requires minimal feeding and maintenance
  • Ideal for self-sustaining ecosystem setups
  • Thrives in compact tanks and ecosystem jars
  • Naturally breeds in stable brackish environments

Product Story

Opae Ula shrimp are unlike any other aquatic pet. Native to Hawaii's unique volcanic landscapes, these tiny red shrimp have adapted to survive in isolated anchialine pools where conditions remain remarkably stable year-round.

Their resilience and longevity have made them highly sought after by hobbyists looking for a truly low-maintenance aquatic ecosystem. A colony of 10 shrimp provides an excellent starting population, allowing you to observe their natural behaviors, social interactions, and potential breeding activity over time.

Whether you're creating your first ecosystem jar or expanding an established habitat, these Hawaiian Volcano Red Shrimp bring a piece of Hawaii's extraordinary natural environment into your home.

Specifications

Species: Halocaridina rubra
Common Name: Opae Ula Shrimp
Alternate Name: Hawaiian Volcano Red Shrimp
Quantity: 10 Shrimp
Water Type: Brackish Water
Temperament: Peaceful
Care Level: Easy
Suitable For: Ecosystem Jars, Nano Tanks, Self-Sustaining Habitats
Origin: Hawaii

Care & Setup Guide

Prepare a brackish water habitat using the appropriate marine mineral mix.
Allow the aquarium or ecosystem jar to cycle and stabilize before introducing shrimp.
Slowly acclimate the shrimp to their new environment.
Place the habitat in a location with indirect natural light.
Feed sparingly, as Opae Ula often graze on naturally occurring biofilm and algae.
Avoid sudden changes in salinity, temperature, or water chemistry.
Maintain a stable environment to encourage long-term health and potential breeding.

Why Shrimp Ecosphere stands out

Developed using real science

🌿

Virtually Zero Maintenance

Requires no feeding, no water changes, and no filtration, as the ecosystem maintains itself through a closed biological cycle

⏳

Designed to live over 20 years

Opae Ula rank among the most long-lived shrimp on the planet, with ecospheres documented to last over 20 years.

🌴

Native Hawaiian origin

Originating in Hawaii’s volcanic anchialine pools, the same ancient environment they have adapted to for millions of years.

🚀

Validated by NASA


NASA explored Opae Ula in the context of closed ecological systems for space missions

GOOD TO KNOW

Questions? We have answers

They need very little maintenance compared to many aquatic pets. A stable environment and simple care routine are usually enough.

With proper care, Opae Ula can live for many years in a healthy, balanced ecosystem.

A small starter group is usually best. You can adjust the number depending on the size of your ecosystem.

You can add your arrival policy, replacement details, or customer support instructions here.

Add your wholesale, resale, or partnership information here.

✦ LIVE ARRIVAL GUARANTEED
✦ FREE SHIPPING OVER $100
✦ SHRIMP THAT LIVE 20 YEARS
✦ WILD-STRAIN HAWAIIAN OPAE ULA
✦ LIVE ARRIVAL GUARANTEED