Crystal Black Shrimp (CBS)
Caridina cantonensis
The Crystal Black Shrimp is a stunning ornamental dwarf shrimp with bold black and white bands. It requires strictly soft, acidic water and peaceful tankmates.
Wassertemperatur
18 - 24 °C
pH-Wert
5.5 - 6.5
Wassertyp
Süßwasser
Wirbelloser Typ
Freshwater shrimp
Erwachsenengröße
2,5 cm
Mindestgruppe
>= 10
GH
4 - 6 dGH
KH
0 - 1 dKH
TDS
100 - 150 ppm
Ökologische Rolle
Scavenger
Kupferempfindlichkeit
High
Artbeschreibung
Geographical Origin and Habitat: The Crystal Black Shrimp (CBS) is a captive-bred ornamental variety. It shares lineage with the wild Caridina cantonensis native to Southern China, which inhabits cool, slow-moving forest streams with soft, acidic water flowing over rocky beds and dense leaf litter.
Taxonomy: Belonging to the family Atyidae, CBS is a dwarf freshwater shrimp reaching 2.5-3 cm in size. It exhibits the standard Caridina body structure, and is classified into various quality grades (A to SSS) depending on the distribution, coverage, and opacity of its black and white bands.
Social Behavior: Peaceful, non-aggressive, and highly social. They graze continuously on the substrate, driftwood, and leaves. They feel most secure when kept in large colonies of their own kind (10-15 individuals minimum) which reduces shyness and promotes active foraging.
Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Features bold alternating transverse bands of opaque black and chalky white. Sexual dimorphism becomes clear in adult specimens: females are noticeably larger, have a deeper, rounder abdominal profile to protect developing eggs, and possess shorter antennae.
Pflege, Zucht und Mitbewohner
Tank Setup: An aquarium of at least 20-30 liters is ideal. Using an active soil substrate is highly recommended to buffer pH in the acidic range. Decore the tank with driftwoods, mineral stones, and dense mosses (such as Java or Christmas moss) to host beneficial biofilm.
Diet and Feeding: Omnivorous detritivores feeding primarily on biofilm, algae, and organic debris. Supplement their diet with high-quality specialized shrimp food, spirulina, dried nettle leaves, and decaying leaf litter (catappa/oak). Avoid overfeeding to prevent water quality drops.
Water Quality: Requires strict and stable parameters: temperature 20-23°C (requires cooling in summer), pH 6.0-6.8, GH 4-6, KH 0-1, and TDS 120-150 ppm. Remineralized Reverse Osmosis (RO) water is highly recommended. Highly sensitive to copper and chlorine.
Compatibility and Tankmates: A species-only tank is highly recommended for breeding success. Safe to house with small, non-aggressive snails and micro-rasboras (e.g. Boraras brigittae). Never house with predatory fish or active bottom dwellers that could prey on them.
Aquarium Breeding: Achievable in stable water. The female carries 20-30 eggs under her abdomen for approximately 4 weeks. The young hatch as fully formed miniature shrimp (no larval stage) and need abundant biofilm and powdered baby shrimp foods to survive.
Risks and Diseases: Highly vulnerable to osmotic shock from sudden changes in TDS or pH, leading to fatal molting failures. Struggles in temperatures above 24-25°C. Susceptible to bacterial infections (milky body disease) if organic waste accumulates in the water.
Geografische Herkunft und Verbreitung
The Crystal Black Shrimp (CBS) is a captive-bred ornamental variety. It shares lineage with the wild Caridina cantonensis native to Southern China, which inhabits cool, slow-moving forest streams with soft, acidic water flowing over rocky beds and dense leaf litter.
Ursprung
Selektive Züchtung und SortenOstasienTropische Ozeane und Riffe
Wirbelloses Profil
- Diät
- Omnivore
- The diet of Caridina cantonensis var. Black typically reflects its natural foraging behavior as a Caridina bee shrimp. It thrives on a varied diet that can include specialized commercial foods, naturally occurring biofilm, and appropriately sized organic matter. Providing a balanced nutritional profile ensures robust health, strong coloration, and proper energy levels. Supplemental feeding should be adjusted based on the maturity of the tank and the presence of natural food sources.
- Ökologische Rolle
- Scavenger
- In its native habitat and the home aquarium, Caridina cantonensis var. Black plays a vital ecological role. It contributes significantly to the processing of organic waste and the maintenance of a balanced micro-ecosystem. By engaging in natural behaviors like scavenging, grazing, or sifting, it helps prevent the accumulation of detritus. This species is often considered a crucial component of a comprehensive clean-up crew.
- Erwachsenengröße
- 2.5 cm
- Sprungrisiko
- Yes
- Despite being aquatic, Caridina cantonensis var. Black can present a flight or jump risk under certain conditions. Many invertebrates will attempt to climb out of the water if parameters drop off, oxygen is low, or they are harassed by tank mates. A tightly fitting lid or screen top is highly recommended to prevent accidental desiccation. Ensuring ideal water conditions is the best deterrent to escape attempts.
- Stoßempfindlichkeit
- Extreme
- Sudden shifts in water parameters can trigger severe osmotic shock in Caridina cantonensis var. Black. It requires slow, careful acclimation, preferably using the drip method over several hours. Rapid changes in temperature, salinity, or pH can lead to immediate stress, failed molts, or mortality. Maintaining absolute stability in the tank is more important than chasing specific target values.
- Kalzium und Mineralien
- Medium
- Adequate calcium levels are absolutely essential for the structural integrity and growth of Caridina cantonensis var. Black. For crustaceans and snails, it facilitates proper shell and exoskeleton development, while for corals, it builds the skeletal structure. Aquarists must regularly monitor calcium concentration alongside alkalinity and magnesium. Supplementation through specialized products or mineral-rich foods may be necessary in depleted systems.
- Häutung
- Yes
- If applicable to this species, the molting process is a highly vulnerable period for Caridina cantonensis var. Black. During this time, the animal will hide while its new exoskeleton hardens, requiring peace and stable water chemistry. The discarded molt should generally be left in the tank, as it provides a valuable source of recycled minerals. A lack of iodine or calcium can lead to fatal molting issues, often referred to as the 'white ring of death'.
- Reproduktion
- Oviparous
- The reproductive strategy of Caridina cantonensis var. Black can range from simple cloning and fragmentation to complex larval stages requiring varying water conditions. Successful captive breeding often signifies excellent water quality and a well-balanced environment. While some species will readily multiply and populate the tank, others may require specialized rearing setups for the offspring to survive. Researching their specific larval development phase is critical for aquarists aiming to breed them.
- Kompatibilität & Tankkameraden
- Species only
- When selecting tank mates for Caridina cantonensis var. Black, cautious planning is imperative to avoid predation or aggressive competition. Small or peaceful invertebrates should not be housed with aggressive fish, loaches, or large crabs that might view them as food. Conversely, some specialized invertebrates form symbiotic relationships that can be highlighted in a community setup. A heavily planted or intricately rock-scaped tank often provides necessary refuges.
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