PURPLE METALLIC SHRIMP

Purple metallic shrimp, such as those from the Caridina genus or other similar species, are known for their striking colors and can be a beautiful addition to your aquarium. Here’s a detailed guide on how to care for them:

Tank Setup

1. Tank Size:

   • Minimum Size: 10 gallons, though larger tanks are preferable for stability and easier management.

2. Water Parameters:

   • Temperature: 68-74°F (20-23°C) is ideal. Keep temperature fluctuations minimal.
   • pH: 5.0-5.7. Stable pH is crucial, so avoid sudden changes.
   • Hardness:
     • KH (Carbonate Hardness): 1-6 dKH
     • GH (General Hardness): 4-8 dGH
   • TDS (Total Dissolved Solids): Keep below 150 ppm for best results.

3. Filtration:

   • Type: Use a sponge filter or a gentle canister filter. Sponge filters are preferred because they provide gentle filtration and serve as a habitat for beneficial bacteria.
   • Flow Rate: Ensure the flow is gentle to avoid stressing the shrimp.

4. Substrate:

   • Type: Fine gravel or sand. Some aquarists use specialized shrimp substrates to help maintain water parameters.
   • Purpose: Provides a surface for the shrimp to forage and helps with the overall aesthetics of the tank.

5. Decorations:

   • Hiding Spots: Include plants, mosses (like Java Moss), driftwood, and rocks. Shrimp like to have plenty of places to hide and graze.
   • Plants: Live plants help maintain water quality and provide natural food sources.

Feeding

1. Diet:

   • Shrimp Food: High-quality shrimp pellets or powders are best. These are specially formulated to meet the nutritional needs of shrimp.
   • Additional Food: Offer blanched vegetables (like zucchini, spinach, and carrots) and occasionally algae wafers or powdered spirulina.

2. Feeding Frequency:

   • Amount: Feed 2-3 times a week. Only provide as much food as the shrimp can consume in a few hours to prevent water pollution.