Crystal Black Shrimp - Caridina Cantonensis : Complete Shrimp Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
Crystal Black Shrimp (Caridina Cantonensis) is a captivating and highly sought-after species of freshwater shrimp that make for excellent additions to any aquarium. Their striking black base colour is accentuated by contrasting white stripes, making them stand out in any tank. These delightful shrimp are natural scavengers and enjoy feeding on algae and decayed vegetation. It's best to keep Crystal Black Shrimp in groups of at least eight individuals, preferably more, and they can coexist peacefully with other aquarium inhabitants, such as different Shrimp species, Snails, and fish, as long as they don't prey on shrimp. Regular moulting is a positive sign, indicating that the shrimp are thriving and healthy.
The process of grading Crystal Black Shrimp involves a significantly more intricate and precise approach when compared to the evaluation of other shrimp species, such as Red Cherries. Rather than merely assessing the depth and uniformity of the shell colouring, meticulous attention is directed towards the precise shapes and locations of the coloured markings, the number of stripes present, and related attributes. While the depth and uniformity of shell colouration remain relevant criteria, there is a heightened emphasis on the intricacies of marking shapes and placements. Furthermore, the number of stripes exhibited by the shrimp significantly influences its grade.
Elevated grades are characterized by the presence of well-defined black stripes with unblemished white segments, resulting in a clear demarcation between the black and white regions. As a general guideline, the intensity of the white colouring on the shrimp directly corresponds to its grade, with the highest grade being designated as SSS. Conversely, lower-grade specimens display feeble and irregular colouration, possibly even revealing translucency in certain areas. The boundaries separating the colours in these lower-grade individuals tend to be indistinct, featuring erratic patterns rather than the crisp demarcations between black and white observed in higher-grade specimens.
Crystal Black Shrimp Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between male and female Crystal Black Shrimps can pose a challenge until they reach maturity. Females possess slightly larger tails and exhibit a distinctive "saddle" formation on their upper body, located behind the head, where eggs accumulate before fertilization. Once the Shrimps have fully matured, the males will be comparatively smaller, while the females will have a more rounded body shape.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Caridina Cantonensis |
|---|---|
| Other Names | Crystal Bee, CBS |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Malacostraca |
| Order | Decapoda |
| Family | Atyidae |
| Genus | Caridina |
| Origins | Japan |
| Max Size | 3 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | All Levels |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | Groups 8+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Ovoviviparous |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 2 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.0 - 7.5 |
| GH | 4 - 6 |
| KH | 0 - 4 |
| TDS | 100 - 200 |
| ℉ | 62 - 76 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 16 - 24 |
Natural Habitat
Crystal Black Shrimp have a fascinating history that dates back to the early 90s in Southeast Asia. Known initially as Bee Shrimp, they caught the attention of a brilliant Japanese breeder who took their beauty to new heights by selectively breeding them to create their striking black colouration. Today, they are known around the world as Crystal Black Shrimp, and their allure continues to captivate shrimp enthusiasts everywhere. While these extraordinary creatures don't have a natural habitat due to their selective breeding, we can look to their Bee Shrimp ancestors for clues on how to create the ideal living conditions for them. Endemic to Taiwan in Southeast Asia, Bee Shrimp thrive in subtropical rivers and streams that are covered with leaf litter and shaded by overhanging trees.
Breeding
Breeding Crystal Black Shrimp at home is achievable with the proper water conditions. Female Shrimps become "berried" or carry eggs for fertilization, which are visible as a saddle-like shape behind the head. The female Shrimp will take care of the eggs by tumbling them underneath, and the eggs will eventually hatch as miniature versions of the adults. Unlike some other Shrimp species, the young do not go through the larvae stage. To ensure the safety of the shrimplets, it is recommended to cover the intakes of power filters with fine sponges or gauze to prevent them from being sucked in and causing harm.
Diet & Feeding
The Crystal Black Shrimp naturally gravitate towards grazing on Algae and biofilm. However, it is advisable to supplement their diet with high-quality dried food options such as sinking pellets, algae wafers, and flake food. Additionally, including small frozen foods like mini-bloodworm and daphnia and some vegetable matter such as blanched broccoli, spinach, or courgette can be offered to diversify their dietary intake. Incorporating dried Indian Almond, oak, or Mulberry leaves in the aquarium can prove advantageous. As these leaves gradually decompose, biofilm accumulates on their surface, serving as a rich food source for the shrimps and helping maintain low pH levels in the aquarium.
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