Crystal Red Shrimp

Environment

It requires soft and acidic water, with low pH and low hardness, often achieved with remineralized RO water and active buffering substrate. The temperature must remain cool and stable, around 22 to 24 degrees. The slightest sudden variation in temperature or parameters can be fatal.

Feeding

It grazes on biofilm and algae, supplemented by specialized foods for Caridina shrimp, catappa leaves, and blanched vegetables. Feed sparingly to maintain pristine water. Active substrate and mosses promote biofilm development that juveniles love.

Health & common diseases

Crystal Red Shrimp are sensitive to sudden changes in parameters (temperature, pH, KH) and pollutants, especially copper and ammonia which are fatal to them. Stress symptoms include loss of coloration, lethargy, and molting failures (stuck exoskeleton). Prevention involves slow acclimatization, regular but moderate water changes (10-15% weekly), stable and soft water, and providing minerals to facilitate molting. Avoid any treatment containing copper and feed moderately to maintain good water quality.

Tips & tankmates

Their sensitivity to copper and nitrates requires very high water quality and regular, measured water changes. Breeding occurs in freshwater, with young born fully formed, but successfully maintaining a colony demands great stability. Avoid mixing them with Neocaridina, which require opposite parameters.

Sources