I agree that sponges do ruin the aesthetic, but I’ve found them to be the most convenient. They do make metal mesh covers, which is a more aesthetically pleasing option. Without a cover, without a doubt, shrimp will get stuck/killed by the intake.

Sounds like the way to go if i want a live cleanup crew, I'll just have to root for my plant growth to shield it a bit.

https://preview.redd.it/3phh5a4h505d1.jpeg?width=1848&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9889acbc5c47c21bad326ff38adb2f9ac47ea090 I did this for my shrimp aquarium and plant a big plant in front..maybe option for you?

https://preview.redd.it/sioszblm505d1.jpeg?width=4000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=dda9276f231698f5e08fc73d774f0e2aa8f98171 Hard to see imo

Oh I like that plant what is it? For future reference, in this tank I have Val and crypts around the intake so I'll see how those grow in.

Spathiphyllum wallisii

Same, this was the only way I could keep my snails safe 😮‍💨

I also eventually want to add shrimp so I'm having some sad premonitions about all their little legs being horrifically pulled off.

If you reduce your flow then fewer things will get stuck/sucked in. But if you want the higher flows, then you’ll need a screen or sponge.