All our fish, shrimp and corals are bagged with fresh oxygen as well as a heat pack in winter.
When ordering livestock please select the box size and add it to your cart for accurate overnight (1-2 days) shipping costs. A small box can take 1-2 bags and a medium box 6 bags. One bag fits max 10 small (1-3cm) fish or max 2 medium (3-5cm) fish or max 1 large (>5cm) fish.
ONE SPECIES PER BAG. Eg: One bag of 10 neon tetra.
Black Galaxy Pinto Shrimp (Caridina cf. cantonensis "Black Galaxy Pinto")
Description:
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Appearance:
- Body: Small, slender, and graceful. The shrimp has a sleek body with a unique coloration pattern.
- Color: Predominantly black with intricate and striking white or cream-colored patterns. The "galaxy" pattern features a mix of spots and patches that resemble a galaxy-like appearance.
- Size: Typically grows to about 1.5-2 inches (3.8-5 cm) in length.
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Behavior:
- Activity: Active and agile, frequently seen scavenging and exploring the tank.
- Social Structure: Generally peaceful, can be kept in groups. They do well in a community setting with other peaceful shrimp or small, non-aggressive fish.
Care Requirements:
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Tank Size:
- Minimum of 10 gallons (38 liters) for a small group; larger tanks are preferred for better stability and more space.
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Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C).
- pH: 6.0-7.5.
- Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water. They thrive in soft water with low TDS (Total Dissolved Solids).
- Filtration: Good filtration is necessary to maintain clean water, but strong currents should be avoided as they can stress the shrimp. Sponge filters are a good option.
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Tank Setup:
- Substrate: Fine substrate such as sand or fine gravel is ideal. Specialized shrimp substrates that help maintain optimal water parameters are also beneficial.
- Aquascaping: Include plenty of hiding spots with plants, rocks, and driftwood. A well-planted tank with lots of cover will make them feel secure and help reduce stress.
- Cover: Ensure the tank is covered to prevent shrimp from escaping. A secure lid or cover is recommended.
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Diet:
- Primary Food: Omnivorous; feed a varied diet including high-quality shrimp pellets, algae wafers, and specialized shrimp foods.
- Supplemental Food: Offer occasional blanched vegetables (e.g., spinach, zucchini) and live or frozen foods such as daphnia, micro-worms, or baby brine shrimp.
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Behavioral Considerations:
- Compatibility: Generally peaceful and can be kept with other small, non-aggressive fish. Avoid larger or aggressive tank mates that might prey on the shrimp.
- Social Behavior: Do well in groups; keeping them in larger numbers can enhance their natural behavior and reduce stress.
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Tank Maintenance:
- Water Changes: Perform regular water changes (10-20% weekly) to maintain water quality. Ensure that the new water matches the tank's parameters to avoid stressing the shrimp.
- Cleaning: Regularly clean the tank, removing any uneaten food or waste. Ensure the filtration system is functioning effectively without disturbing the shrimp.
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Health Care:
- Observation: Monitor for signs of stress or illness, such as changes in behavior, loss of appetite, or visible issues like discoloration or difficulty molting.
- Treatment: Maintain optimal water conditions and consult an aquarium professional if any health issues arise. Be particularly mindful of molting difficulties and potential infections.