YELLOW GOLDEN BACK SHRIMP

Yellow Golden Back Shrimp, also known as the Golden Back Shrimp, is a captivating and vibrant freshwater shrimp species known for its striking yellow coloration and unique appearance. Proper care is essential to keep these beautiful shrimp healthy and thriving. Here’s a comprehensive guide to caring for Yellow Golden Back Shrimp:

Tank Size and Setup

• Tank Size: A minimum of 10 gallons is recommended for a small group of Yellow Golden Back Shrimp. Larger tanks (20 gallons or more) are preferable as they provide more stable conditions and ample space for the shrimp to explore.
• Aquascape: Create an environment with a mix of plants, rocks, and hiding spots. Shrimp appreciate a well-structured tank with plenty of surfaces to graze on and places to hide.
• Substrate: Use a fine substrate like sand or small gravel. Dark substrates are often preferred as they enhance the shrimp's coloration and provide a natural look.
• Plants: Include hardy plants such as Java moss, Anubias, or Cryptocoryne. Floating plants can also provide shade and additional surfaces for biofilm growth.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: Maintain a water temperature between 68-78°F (20-26°C). Use a reliable heater to keep the temperature stable.
• pH: Yellow Golden Back Shrimp prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. Consistent pH levels are crucial for their health.
• Hardness: They thrive in soft to moderately hard water with a general hardness (GH) of 4-6 dGH and a carbonate hardness (KH) of 2-4 dKH. Proper mineral content is important for their exoskeleton.
• Water Quality: These shrimp are sensitive to poor water quality. Perform regular water changes of 10-20% weekly to maintain optimal conditions. Use dechlorinated water that matches the tank’s temperature and parameters.

Filtration and Water Flow

• Filtration: Use a sponge filter or a gentle hang-on-back filter that provides effective filtration without creating strong currents. Sponge filters are ideal as they offer additional surface area for biofilm growth, which the shrimp graze on.
• Water Flow: Yellow Golden Back Shrimp prefer gentle water flow. Strong currents can stress them and make it difficult for them to forage. Use tank decorations to help diffuse water flow if necessary.

Feeding

• Diet: Provide a varied diet including high-quality shrimp pellets or wafers, algae-based foods, and blanched vegetables like spinach or zucchini. Supplement with occasional live or frozen foods such as baby brine shrimp or daphnia.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed small amounts 2-3 times a week. Ensure that all food is consumed within a few hours to avoid overfeeding and water quality issues. Remove any uneaten food promptly.