Note that accounts of its occurrence in South America are erroneous, and likely another species (Atya scabra).

[3] Atya gabonensis is found in West Africa, from Senegal to the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

[4] Despite their predatory-sounding name "Vampire", they are a non-aggressive species that does well in community tanks that have areas to hide during the molting process.

Either a very well established tank with sufficient plankton, or supplemental feedings of finely ground fish food, spirulina powder, etc.

If they begin patrolling the bottom and sifting sand, this is a sign they are not getting enough to eat from filter-feeding and are in danger of starving.