Hyalella azteca is an amphipod belonging to the family Dogielinotidae and reaches a length of six (females) to eight (males) millimetres. Its natural range extends from Central America (Mexico, Caribbean) to Canada. Here in Germany it is called Mexican amphipod. It is variable in colour, there are white, greenish and reddish specimens.
Hyalella azteca in the aquarium
Hyalella azteca can be kept well in nanoaquariums or large jars. It can also be kept in a bucket or tub on the balcony. The crustacean can tolerate temperatures between 10 and 34°C.
The tank should not be kept too clean as it likes to nibble at the growth. It is also prone to mass reproduction and may eat live plants.
It is a food competitor for small shrimps and snails. The piece of Chinese cabbage shown in the pictures was eaten by the crustaceans within 30 minutes.
Hyalella azteca is best kept in a separate tank where it can develop undisturbed.
It can be fed on blanched vegetables. Lamb’s lettuce, endive and Chinese cabbage are popular. Or boiled carrot, parsley root and parsnip. Root vegetables cloud the water quite quickly, so they should only be given in very small quantities. The same goes for onions, which Hyalella azteca also likes.
Sticks and flakes for shrimps or fish are also eaten by Hyalella azteca, but are not essential for it to thrive. I occasionally add small pieces of natural tofu to the tank as a source of protein.
Categories: Crustaceans