Crystal Black Shrimp

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.

Crystal Black Shrimp (Caridina cf. cantonensis)

Description:

• Appearance:

  • Body: Small and elongated with a segmented exoskeleton.
  • Color: Black with white or translucent bands or spots, which can vary in pattern. The contrast between the black and white coloration makes them visually striking.
  • Size: Typically grows to about 1-1.5 inches (2.5-4 cm) in length.

• Behavior:

  • Activity: Active and often seen foraging on the substrate and among plants.
  • Social Structure: Generally peaceful and does well in groups. They interact with each other and with other peaceful tank mates.

Care Requirements:

• Tank Size:

  • Minimum of 10 gallons (38 liters). A larger tank is preferable to provide ample space and maintain stable water conditions.

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 68-78°F (20-26°C).
  • pH: 6.0-7.0.
  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water. They prefer low to moderate water hardness.
  • Filtration: A standard filter is adequate. Ensure it does not create strong currents, as Crystal Black Shrimp prefer calmer waters.

• Tank Setup:

  • Substrate: Fine substrate such as sand or nutrient-rich soil. Avoid sharp or rough substrates that could damage their delicate legs.
  • Aquascaping: Provide plenty of hiding spots and structures like rocks, driftwood, and plants. These elements help create a comfortable environment and mimic their natural habitat.
  • Lighting: Standard aquarium lighting is sufficient. They do not require special lighting but do best with moderate light levels.

• Diet:

  • Primary Food: Omnivorous; feed a varied diet including high-quality shrimp pellets, algae wafers, and powdered foods. Supplement with live or frozen foods like micro worms, daphnia, or finely crushed brine shrimp.
  • Supplemental Food: Offer occasional treats such as blanched vegetables (e.g., zucchini, spinach) to provide dietary variety and support overall health.

• Behavioral Considerations:

  • Compatibility: Best kept with other peaceful, small tank mates. Avoid aggressive or predatory fish. Suitable tank mates include small, non-aggressive fish and other dwarf shrimp species.
  • Social Behavior: Crystal Black Shrimp are social creatures and thrive in groups. They are less likely to exhibit stress-related behaviors when kept in appropriate numbers.

• Tank Maintenance:

  • Water Changes: Perform regular water changes (20-30% weekly) to maintain water quality and reduce toxin buildup.
  • Cleaning: Regularly clean the tank and remove any uneaten food or waste. Ensure the filtration system is functioning properly.

• Health Care:

  • Observation: Monitor for signs of stress or illness, such as changes in behavior, loss of appetite, or visible symptoms like discoloration or shell damage.
  • Treatment: Maintain optimal water conditions and consult an aquarium professional if any health issues arise. Address any signs of disease or stress promptly to ensure the health of your shrimp.