If you are interested in doing freshwater aquascaping, there’s a good chance you’ve already come across Caridina shrimp. These beautiful, delicate little crustaceans aren’t just a joy to watch; they’re also some of the most rewarding species to care for, especially when you create the right environment for them.
Whether you’re planning to set up your first Caridina shrimp tank or just want to level up your current setup, we’ve got your back. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything from tank setup to water conditions and everyday maintenance, so your shrimp stay healthy, active, and brilliantly coloured.
Why Caridina Shrimp Need a Bit More Attention
get this out of the way, Caridina shrimp are slightly more sensitive than their Neocaridina cousins. They require a bit more care when it comes to water parameters and stability, but once you get the hang of it, caring for them becomes second nature.
If you’re curious to see the range of colors and species available, you can explore some of the most stunning varieties at the Caridina Shrimp Collection at Shrimp Up Aquatics.
How to Care for Caridina Shrimp?
Step 1: Pick the Right Tank Size
While Caridina shrimp don’t need a massive tank, they do benefit from stability, and larger tanks offer just that. A 10-gallon tank is a great starting point. It gives you enough space to build a comfortable environment and makes it easier to maintain consistent water parameters.
Avoid overstocking; shrimp enjoy room to explore, forage, and breed. A smaller, overcrowded tank will stress them out.
Step 2: Use Decor That Supports Shrimp Health
Caridina shrimp thrive in tanks with active substrates designed to keep pH levels slightly acidic. Brands like ADA Amazonia or similar shrimp-specific soils help maintain a slightly acidic environment, which most Caridina species prefer.
Add some driftwood, cholla wood, mosses, and hiding spots using rocks or shrimp caves. Not only does this mimic their natural habitat, but it also gives shrimp a sense of security, especially during molting.
Step 3: Water Parameters Matter (A Lot)
Here’s where things get a little technical, but don’t worry, it’s all manageable once you’ve set things up properly. Remember these water parameters:
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Temperature: 70°F to 74°F (21°C to 23°C)
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pH: 6.0 to 6.8
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GH (General Hardness): 4–6
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KH (Carbonate Hardness): 0–2
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TDS (Total Dissolved Solids): 100–150 ppm
Using RO (reverse osmosis) water and remineralising it with shrimp-specific minerals gives you full control over water parameters, which is ideal for Caridina species.
Step 4: Filtration & Cycling the Tank
Caridina shrimp are sensitive to ammonia and nitrites, so make sure your tank is fully cycled before introducing them. Use a sponge filter or a gentle HOB (hang-on-back) filter with a pre-filter sponge to prevent baby shrimp from being sucked in.
Don’t rush it. Take 4–6 weeks to cycle the tank and monitor water parameters throughout. Patience now means healthy shrimp later.
Step 5: Regular Maintenance Routine
Once your tank is established, keep things consistent by doing regular maintenance. Do small water changes weekly—around 10–15% using remineralised RO water. Always match the temperature and parameters closely to avoid shocking your shrimp.
Remove uneaten food and organic waste, but don’t go overboard with cleaning. Shrimp love biofilm, and too much scrubbing can strip their food source.
Bonus Tip: Try Unique Species Like Cardinal Sulawesi
If you're up for a challenge and want something exotic, the Cardinal Sulawesi Shrimp is a showstopper. These striking shrimp are more demanding in terms of care but offer a truly rewarding experience for advanced hobbyists. Buy Cardinal Sulawesi Shrimp right now.
Keep It Simple, Stay Consistent
Caring for Caridina shrimp might sound like a science project at first, but with the right setup and routine, it becomes a calming and enjoyable part of your day. Once you get their environment dialled in, they’ll reward you with vibrant colours, natural behaviour, and even new baby shrimp along the way.
If you're looking to add more colour and personality to your tank, explore the full range of Caridina Shrimp For Sale here and get started on your shrimp-keeping journey today!