About US Mysids

Industry-leading experience.

For more than 20 years, marine biologist and US Mysids founder Herb Hickox has cultured Mysid shrimp and captured them in coastal waters. Over the years, he has consulted with other biologists at dozens of aquariums and universities and has contributed his expertise at aquarium conferences. He has also worked closely with dozens of quality-minded Aquarium curators across North America.

Providing the ideal diet

With this research and experience, and after harvesting millions of Mysid shrimp, he shares the belief of other biologists that live caught Mysids are the heartiest and healthiest choice for shipping and for fulfilling the nutritional needs of rare and valuable aquarium creatures. As a dietary staple, live captured Mysids are the only way to duplicate the hunting and feeding behavior of aquatic animals. This includes the natural seasonal variations in nutrition which the animals have evolved to benefit from. Download study results from The University of Florida’s Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience.

Sustainable Collection Methods

U.S. Mysids collects using only Dipnets in shallow water. No trawls ever used and no dredging. We leave only footprints. There are more “efficient” methods but this is a self-regulating and sustainable method. It causes more work for us, but leaves behind plenty of Mysids to repopulate the local ecosystem. We are forced to look elsewhere to collect, thereby creating a SUSTAINBLE Mysid fishery.

“Our breeding colony of Ctenophores (Mnemiopsis leidyi) definitely look forward to their weekly Mysid Shrimp! They provide important nutrition to keep our animals healthy and reproductive“

Mark Q. Martindale, Professor and Director
Whitney Lab for Marine Bioscience, University of Florida

A legacy of trusted service to the aquarium Industry

US Mysids meets the needs of leading aquariums and aquatic research centers throughout North America with responsive, personalized service. We pledge that our healthy live-caught Mysids and Grass Shrimp will always reach you–in guaranteed quantities–within 48 hours of order.

Below is just a sampling of the many respected organizations that have trusted us over the years:

“Mysid Shrimp are a great food to entice even the pickiest of our ornamental fish to eat.“

Madeleine Morrison, Ornamental Fish Breeding Program
Whitney Lab for Marine Bioscience, University of Florida