DRAGON BLOOD SHRIMP

Dragon Blood Caridina Shrimp are a variety of Caridina shrimp known for their striking red coloration. They are relatively new and less common compared to other shrimp varieties, but their care is quite similar to other Caridina species, like Crystal Red Shrimp and Taiwan Bee Shrimp. Here’s a comprehensive care guide to help ensure your Dragon Blood Caridina Shrimp thrive:

Tank Size and Setup

• Tank Size: A minimum of 10 gallons is recommended for maintaining stable water conditions. A larger tank will help provide more stability in water parameters, which is crucial for the health of these sensitive shrimp.
• Substrate: Use a shrimp-friendly substrate that helps buffer the water and maintain a slightly acidic pH. Active substrates, such as ADA Aqua Soil or other specialized shrimp substrates, are ideal as they help maintain the appropriate pH and water hardness.
• Plants and Decor: Include plenty of live plants like Java moss, Anubias, and Bucephalandra. These plants provide cover, increase surface area for biofilm growth, and help maintain water quality. Adding driftwood, rocks, and leaf litter (such as Indian almond leaves) will provide additional hiding spots and natural food sources.
• Lighting: Moderate lighting is sufficient. While Dragon Blood Shrimp do not require intense lighting, adequate light is needed for plant growth and can enhance the appearance of the shrimp.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: Dragon Blood Shrimp prefer cooler water temperatures, ideally between 68-75°F (20-24°C). Avoid temperatures above 77°F (25°C), as higher temperatures can stress the shrimp and shorten their lifespan.
• pH: They thrive in slightly acidic water, with a pH range of 5.5 to 5.7 Active substrates will help maintain this acidic environment, which is crucial for their health.
• Hardness: Soft water is preferred, with a general hardness (GH) of 4-6 dGH and carbonate hardness (KH) of 0-2 dKH. Soft water conditions support proper molting and overall health.
• Water Quality: Excellent water quality is essential. Dragon Blood Caridina Shrimp are sensitive to ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels. Aim for ammonia and nitrite levels at 0 ppm, and keep nitrates below 10 ppm. Perform regular water changes (10-20% weekly) using dechlorinated or RO (reverse osmosis) water to maintain optimal 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 growth.
• Water Flow: Ensure the water flow is gentle. Dragon Blood Shrimp are not strong swimmers, and strong currents can cause stress. Adjust the filter output to create a mild flow throughout the tank.

Feeding

• Diet: Dragon Blood Caridina 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 to avoid overfeeding and water quality issues.