PICK-UP ONLY
PICK-UP ONLY
This for the winter - in summer we will ship again
These shrimps give birth to blue, blue velvet and almost black baby's as well
We recommend you add a polystyrene box for live arrival – 6 pack Link HERE or Berry box Link HERE
Caridina Shrimp Care GuideCaridina shrimp, including popular varieties like this Blue dream are fascinating and beautiful additions to any freshwater aquarium. Known for their vibrant colors and peaceful nature, Caridina shrimp are relatively easy to care for given the right conditions. Here's a comprehensive care guide to help you ensure the health and well-being of your Caridina shrimp:
1. Aquarium Setup:
- Tank Size: Provide at least a 5-gallon tank for a small colony of Caridina shrimp.
- Substrate: Use a fine, inert substrate like sand or specialized shrimp substrate to allow for natural foraging behavior.
- Filtration: Gentle filtration is essential to prevent strong currents that can stress the shrimp. Sponge filters are highly recommended.
- Plants and Decor: Incorporate live plants like mosses, Java fern, and Anubias for grazing surfaces and hiding spots. Driftwood and smooth rocks also provide shelter.
2. Water Parameters:
- Temperature: Maintain a stable temperature between 72-78°F (22-26°C).
- pH Level: Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.5-7.5.
- Hardness: Caridina shrimp prefer soft to moderately hard water with a GH of 4-8 dGH and KH of 0-4 dKH.
- Ammonia and Nitrites: Keep ammonia and nitrite levels at 0 ppm. Regular water changes are crucial for maintaining water quality.
- Copper: Avoid any copper-based medications or treatments as they are toxic to shrimp.
3. Feeding:
- Offer a varied diet rich in plant matter and protein. High-quality shrimp-specific foods, blanched vegetables (such as zucchini, spinach, or cucumber), and algae wafers are excellent options.
- Supplement their diet with occasional treats like blanched spinach, calcium-rich foods (such as cuttlebone or specialized shrimp supplements), and small amounts of protein sources like bloodworms or brine shrimp.
4. Water Quality Maintenance:
- Perform regular water changes of 10-20% every week to maintain optimal water parameters and remove excess waste.
- Use a dechlorinator to treat tap water before adding it to the aquarium.
- Avoid overfeeding and remove any uneaten food promptly to prevent water quality issues.
5. Tank Mates:
- Choose tank mates carefully to ensure compatibility with Caridina shrimp. Peaceful fish species like small tetras, rasboras, or dwarf shrimp-safe species are suitable options.
- Avoid keeping Caridina shrimp with aggressive or predatory fish that may view them as food.
6. Breeding:
- Caridina shrimp breed readily in a well-established aquarium with stable water parameters.
- Provide ample hiding places and mosses for shrimp fry to seek refuge.
- Baby shrimp (shrimp fry) are sensitive to water quality, so maintaining pristine conditions is crucial for their survival.
7. Observation and Maintenance:
- Regularly observe the behavior and appearance of your Caridina shrimp to detect any signs of stress, illness, or molting issues.
- Perform routine maintenance tasks such as algae cleaning, substrate vacuuming, and equipment checks to ensure a healthy environment for your shrimp.
By following these care guidelines, you can create a thriving and vibrant habitat for your Caridina shrimp, allowing you to enjoy their beauty and antics for years to come. Remember that each shrimp species may have specific requirements, so research the particular needs of your chosen variety for optimal care.