Substrate for a shrimp tank: guide for (Neo)Caridina
When it comes to keeping Neocaridina and Caridina shrimp, choosing the right substrate is crucial for their well-being. The substrate you choose will affect the water parameters, filtration, and overall health of your shrimp. In this article, we will explore the different types of substrate for Neocaridina and Caridina shrimp.
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Why use a substrate
Substrates are a gravely underestimated part of good biological filtration. The substrate houses tons of beneficial bacteria that will help filter your aquarium. Plus it adds a lot of surface area for biofilm to grow on, which provides more food for your shrimp. Additionally the substrate allows you to add a plethora of live plants and makes everything look more natural. If you want to keep Caridina shrimp you have to use a special kind of buffering substrate in order to achieve the lower pH and KH they need.
Types of Substrate for Neocaridina Shrimp
Neocaridina shrimp are hardy and adaptable, making them a popular choice for beginner shrimp keepers. When it comes to substrate, the best option is inert substrate since this doesn’t change any parameters.
Planted Neocaridina tank
Gravel is a great option for planted tanks since the roots can more easily grow in this substrate. In combination with some nutrient tabs of powder your plants will flourish. Do keep in mind that some gravel might have very sharp edges that can hurt your delicate shrimp, so check this before buying.
Sand is inert and gives a special look to your tank. It is great as a decorative element to add on top of other substrate types. The only drawback is that the sand can compact over time leading to anaerobic gas pockets. This gas will cause problems for your shrimp if they do leach out into the water column.
Aquasoil: Aquasoil is a type of substrate made from volcanic ash and clay. It has a high nutrient content, which can benefit plant growth and provide a natural source of food for your shrimp. However, it can also lower the pH and hardness of the water, which may require additional monitoring and is best capped with sand.
Non-planted Neocaridina tank
I cannot stress enough that having plants in your tank will gravely enhance your shrimps wellbeing. So unless you need a temporary setup like a quarantine tank or moving tank, you should consider adding plants. Mosses or epiphyte plants don’t requirer a special kind of substrate and still give all the benefits.
A small layer of sand or even gravel is enough for a non planted tank. Having a thick layer without having plants can only cause problems through leftover food seeping through and causing ammonia spikes.
Another option is having a bare bottom tank but this isn’t really recommended because there will be lesser surface area and no extra filter capacity. If you do still want a bare bottom tank you should definitely add some mosses and/or other epiphyte plants.
Types of Substrate for Caridina Shrimp
Caridina shrimp are more sensitive to water parameters than neocaridina shrimp, and as such, require buffering substrate to thrive.
There are different kinds of buffering substrates that you can choose from. The most common ones are ADA Amazonia, Bee shrimp Mineral, Shrimp Soil, or Fluval stratum.
Conclusion
When choosing a substrate for neocaridina and caridina shrimp, it is important to consider the specific needs of your shrimp. In general, inert substrates such as gravel or sand are a good choice for neocaridina shrimp, while caridina shrimp require substrates that can provide a source of minerals and help buffer the pH to a slightly acidic level. By choosing the right substrate for your shrimp, you can help ensure that they thrive in their environment and live long, healthy lives.
