Care Level: Moderate

Temperament: Peaceful

Live Plant Safe: Yes

General Description: The Crystal Black Shrimp, also referred to as the Black Bee Shrimp, are without a doubt one of the most stunning dwarf shrimp. Native to Taiwan, the majority of our Crystal black shrimp are sourced locally from breeders right here in Wisconsin! Unlike the hardier Neocaridina shrimps, Caridina shrimps, such as the Crystal black, are a little more delicate to keep and will not tolerate deteriorating or unstable water parameters in the slightest. There are a few other specific elements in water chemistry that can be detrimental to any Caridina shrimp – these include ammonia, nitrite or high nitrate levels (> 20 ppm). Caridina shrimp prefer to be in groups because they are social; a single shrimp will hide almost exclusively. Keep Crystal black shrimp in a group of 3 or 4 individuals at minimum, but more are certainly encouraged. Female Crystal black shrimp will grow slightly larger than males, reaching an adult size of approximately 1.5″. Caridina note: You will notice that there are many species/colors of shrimp within the genus Caridina. While each of these have similar care requirements and can be housed together successfully, one should be aware that in this case, cross-breeding can occur and such intermediate individuals from these parental shrimp species will be more muted in color, if not drab. If the hobbyist is interested in maintaining their shrimp’s gene pool and coloration, only one species of Caridina should be kept per aquarium (e.g., Crystal black shrimp with Crystal black shrimp only).

Diet Requirements: Crystal black shrimp are omnivores, and will feed on various foods that have made their way to the bottom of the aquarium or on top of other surfaces, including live plants. There are shrimp-specific foods on the market, and these are important to incorporate into their diets because they provide necessary minerals for exoskeletal molt, growth and overall health of your shrimp. Variety is the spice of life, even for these small invertebrates.

Care Requirements: An established minimum 10 gallon aquarium is ideal for small group of Crystal black shrimp. While these shrimp are small, this size aquarium better provides a stable environment. Crystal black shrimp can be kept in small tanks (5 gallons), but it may take a more dedicated aquarist to stay on top of providing immaculate water parameters. Crystal black shrimp are very intolerable of nitrite or ammonia spikes. Weekly water changes are suggested to keep water parameters pristine (Nitrates < 20 ppm). Of note, not all aquariums may require weekly maintenance but regular water testing should be done at the very least to keep tabs on values that are detrimental to Crystal black shrimp, such as nitrates. All Caridina shrimp require a lower pH and soft water that is typically achieved by the use of altered reverse osmosis (RODI) water and the use of minerals specific for Caridina shrimps. Never use tap water on a Caridina shrimp tank. Avoid the use of copper based medications as this will cause harm to, or even kill, your shrimp. Crystal black shrimp will show their best coloration in an environment in which they feel secure. Such an environment is preferably a densely live planted aquarium. At the very least, Caridina shrimp require some type of moss to hang out in and take refuge. We’ve noticed a favorite is Java Moss (Vesicularia dubyana), which is relatively easy to maintain and grow. In the proper environment, Crystal black shrimp can breed without any intervention. Caridina shrimp are compatible with nano-type fish species, such as certain tetra and rasboras. Small catfish, shrimp from other genera and snails are also compatible choices. Neocaridina shrimp are typically incompatible given that they have different KH and pH preferences. Avoid fish with large mouths that will make a snack out of your shrimp; this can include Siamese Fighting Fish, or bettas, (Betta splendens) in some circumstances. Recommended water conditions, 68-76° F, KH 0-4, pH 5.8-7.0.

Purchase Size: Medium: 1/2”

Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.