Crystal Red Shrimp

Caridina cantonensis

Crystal red shrimp are selectively bred freshwater dwarf shrimp in the Caridina cantonensis group, carrying red-and-white banded bodies that come from bee shrimp lines. In the aquarium hobby they are sorted into grades based on pattern, color depth, and the amount of white coverage. Their small size, constant grazing, and crisp markings make them popular with specialist keepers in planted nano aquariums, but they are a refined ornamental strain rather than a hardy general-purpose cleaner shrimp.

Successful keeping depends on stable soft, slightly acidic water, mature filtration, and a steady supply of biofilm, powdered foods, and fine vegetable-based feeds. They are more sensitive to temperature swings, dissolved minerals, copper, and poor water quality than many Neocaridina shrimp. Breeders usually keep lines separate to maintain color and grade, and females carry eggs under the abdomen until miniature shrimp hatch. Peaceful tankmates are important in a dedicated colony, since most fish will eat shrimplets.