CRYSTAL RED SHRIMP - CRS

Crystal Red Shrimp (Caridina cantonensis) are highly sought after in the aquarium hobby due to their striking red and white color patterns and intricate markings. They are more delicate compared to their Neocaridina cousins, requiring specific water parameters and a bit more attention to detail in their care. Here’s a comprehensive care guide to help ensure your Crystal Red Shrimp thrive:

Tank Size and Setup

• Tank Size: A minimum tank size of 10 gallons is recommended for maintaining stable water conditions. Larger tanks are more stable and can support larger colonies.
• Substrate: Use a shrimp-friendly substrate that can help buffer the water and maintain a slightly acidic pH. Active substrates like ADA Aqua Soil or other shrimp-specific substrates are ideal as they help maintain the ideal pH and water hardness.
• Plants and Decor: Include plenty of live plants such as Java moss, Anubias, and Java fern. These plants provide hiding spots and surfaces for biofilm (a natural food source) to grow. Other decor items like driftwood and rocks are beneficial for creating a natural environment and providing additional hiding spots.
• Lighting: Moderate lighting is sufficient. Crystal Red Shrimp do not require intense lighting, but live plants will benefit from it. Aim for a balanced light to avoid excessive algae growth.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: Crystal Red Shrimp prefer cooler water temperatures, ideally between 68-75°F (20-24°C). Avoid temperatures above 77°F (25°C) as higher temperatures can increase their metabolism, leading to shorter lifespans and more stress.
• pH: They thrive in slightly acidic conditions, with a pH range of 5.5-6.0 Active substrates can help maintain this acidic environment.
• Hardness: Soft water is preferred, with a general hardness (GH) of 4-6 dGH and carbonate hardness (KH) of 0-2 dKH. Low hardness levels help support proper molting and overall health.
• Water Quality: Excellent water quality is crucial for Crystal Red Shrimp. They are sensitive to ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates. Keep ammonia and nitrite levels at 0 ppm, and nitrates below 10 ppm. Perform regular water changes (10-20% weekly) using dechlorinated or RO (reverse osmosis) water to maintain water quality.

Filtration and water Flow

• Filtration: Use a gentle filtration system, such as a sponge filter or a low-flow internal filter. Sponge filters are ideal as they provide mechanical filtration, aeration, and a surface for beneficial bacteria and biofilm, which are essential for shrimp health.
• Water Flow: Ensure the water flow is gentle. Crystal Red Shrimp are not strong swimmers, and strong currents can stress them. Adjust the filter output to create a gentle flow throughout the tank.

Feeding

• Diet: Crystal Red Shrimp are omnivorous and will graze on biofilm, algae, and detritus. Offer a balanced diet with high-quality shrimp pellets or granules as their staple food.
• Supplemental Foods: Supplement their diet with blanched vegetables (such as spinach, zucchini, or cucumber), algae wafers, and occasional protein-rich foods like bloodworms or daphnia. Adding leaf litter, like Indian almond leaves or dried oak leaves, can provide natural food sources and tannins that benefit their health.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed them small amounts every other day, providing only what they can consume within a few hours. Overfeeding can lead to water quality issues.