Trace elements, as cofactors or structural components of various enzymes, participate in various metabolic processes and play a key role in maintaining animal health and normal physiological function. Although trace elements requirements for animals are very small, lack, excess or imbalance of intake will bring serious adverse effects on animal growth, metabolism, immunity and reproduction. In this review, the effects of trace elements on growth and metabolism, immunity, disease prevention, gonadal development and other aspects of shrimp, and the mechanism of absorption, transport and metabolism of inorganic and organic trace elements were systematically summarized, which might provide theoretical basis for the development of shrimp feed in the future.