Ninja Shrimp

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Native to the coastal tropical Indo-Pacific. It inhabits coastal freshwater streams and estuaries where larvae wash down to brackish water.

Taxonomy: Belonging to the family Atyidae and Caridina genus. Features a serrated rostrum and a slender body growing to about 3.5 cm.

Social Behavior: Peaceful and somewhat shy. Active grazer that spends its time cleaning algae or hiding in dense vegetation.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Called Ninja Shrimp because of its ability to rapidly change body color from red to black, blue, or brown. Females are larger.

Tank Setup: Planted tank with lots of fine mosses and rocky shelters is recommended. Cover filter intakes to protect these small shrimp.

Diet and Feeding: Omnivore. Primarily consumes biofilm, algae, and organic debris. Provide shrimp pellets and blanched vegetables.

Water Quality: Demands clean, oxygenated water. pH 6.5-8.0, GH 6-15 dGH, and temperature 20-27°C. Avoid sudden shifts.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Ideal with small, peaceful dither fish. Do not house with predatory species (like cichlids or large barbs).

Aquarium Breeding: Complex. Eggs hatch into free-swimming larvae that must be transferred to brackish water to grow before returning to freshwater.

Risks and Diseases: Highly vulnerable to copper and medication residues. Molting failures occur if calcium and magnesium are lacking.