Crystal Black Shrimp

Crystal Black Shrimp (Caridina cantonensis)

The classic black-and-white bee shrimp, the Crystal Black features bold white bands contrasted with deep black markings. Graded by the amount of white (higher grade = more white), it's a staple of the Caridina hobby and a rewarding shrimp for keepers with soft, acidic water.

Care at a Glance:

• Minimum Tank Size: 20L with plants, moss, and hiding spots
• Temperature: 20–24°C
• pH Range: 6.0–6.8
• Water Hardness: Soft (GH 4–6, KH 0–2)
• Temperament: Peaceful, schooling
• Diet: Shrimp pellets, algae wafers, blanched spinach, biofilm grazing
• Max Size: 2.5–3cm
• Lifespan: 1–2 years
• Care Level: Moderate to difficult (needs soft, acidic, stable water)

Tank Mates: Best in a shrimp-only tank; small peaceful fish in a larger tank, but expect some predation on shrimplets.

Origin: Captive-bred variant (wild ancestors from China)