Caridina sp.

Datasheet

General Description

Red Glaze Shrimp, scientifically known as Caridina sp., are captivating freshwater crustaceans with a striking red coloration that adds vibrancy to aquariums. These shrimp have an opaque white body adorned with playful red polka dots, along with patches of red on the head, abdomen, and tail, making each specimen a unique living artwork.

Aquarium Setup

Red Glaze Shrimp thrive in freshwater aquariums with good filtration, high water quality, and peaceful tank mates. They do exceptionally well in planted tanks where they can find ample food and shelter. For keeping a colony or establishing a breeding setup, a tank size of at least 10 gallons is recommended, while a minimum of 3 gallons suffices for individual shrimp. Ensure compatibility with other tank inhabitants as Red Glaze Shrimp are sensitive to larger carnivorous species and copper-based medications.

Behaviour

Red Glaze Shrimp are peaceful and purposeful creatures that contribute to the activity of the aquarium by foraging for algae and organic debris. They are best kept in a serene environment with suitable hiding spots, like plants or decorations, where they can exhibit their natural scavenging behavior. Being highly adaptable, these shrimp adjust well to varying tank conditions, making them an ideal choice for both novice and experienced aquarists.

Feeding and Diet

As omnivores, Red Glaze Shrimp have a varied diet that includes algae, detritus, and leftover fish food. Supplement their diet with quality flake food, pellets, or algae tablets if natural food sources are limited in the aquarium. Ensuring an adequate and diverse diet is crucial for their overall health and vitality, especially in breeding situations where the availability of nutrients impacts the survival rate of newborn shrimp.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

In suitable conditions, male and female Red Glaze Shrimp will likely breed, with the female carrying yellowish eggs beneath her tail until hatching, which usually occurs after about 30 days. The newborn shrimp resemble miniature versions of the adults and can be fed the same diet. Breeding Red Glaze Shrimp requires a separate breeder aquarium equipped with a sponge filter to optimize the survival rate of the offspring.

Habitat and Distribution

Red Glaze Shrimp, belonging to the Atyidae family, are typically found in freshwater habitats with a temperature range of 21.1-25.6°C. They prefer water conditions with a pH level between 6.0-7.0, a general hardness of 3-10 dKH, and a total dissolved solids (TDS) measurement of 100-200. These shrimp are known for their adaptability and can inhabit various freshwater environments, especially those rich in plant life and organic matter.