Caridina
Caridina are of the decapods order, literally meaning “10 footed”, thus are related to the lobsters and crabs. All shrimp that spend their adult life in freshwater are further classified in the Atyidae family, this also includes the Neocaridina genus. The Caridina genus is first described in 1837 by the French zoologist Henri Milne-Edwards in his book Histoire naturelle des crustacés. Since then more than 300 species of Caridina have been discovere., Even as recently as 2021 new species of the Caridina genus have been added. Compared to the Neocaridina genus, that only counts 26 species, the Caridina the most diversified genus of the Atyidae family. They originate from the (sub)tropical waters of Asia, Oceania, and Africa but are most commonly found in the Indo-pacific region.
Caridina shrimp can be found in a range of water conditions. While mostly freshwater shrimps, some species need brackish water in order to reproduce. They are also sensitive to water quality, so it is important to regularly test and maintain proper water parameters. Caridina shrimp can coexist with a variety of other tank mates, including snails, small fish, and plants. However, it is important to avoid keeping them with larger or more aggressive species that may harm or stress the shrimp. Anything with a mouth big enough to fit shrimplets can, and probably will, eat them! So, if you want your shrimp to breed it’s important to remember this when stocking your tank. In addition to their aesthetic value, Caridina shrimp play a valuable role in maintaining the health of the aquarium by helping to clean up excess food and algae.
Different species of Caridina
There are many different species of Caridina shrimp, the most popular are Caridina cantonensis , Caridina dennerli, and Caridina multidentata. Each species has its own unique appearance and care requirements, so it is important to research and choose the right species for your tank.
Caridina cantonensis
Caridina cantonensis, are the most popular species in the shrimp keeping hobby. Known for their wide variation in colour patterns, they are a true staple for the more advanced breeders.
Caridina dennerli
Caridina dennerli, otherwise known as Sulawesi shrimp, are a recent addition to the aquarium trade. First discovered in 2007 on an expedition payed by the German aquarium brand Dennerle, leading to its name. Sulawesi shrimp are only found in two lakes on the Sulawesi island of Indonesia. In comparison to C. cantonensis they need more alkalisch water with a pH of around 8.
Caridina multidentata (japonica)
Caridina multidentata, better know as the “Amano shrimp”, or previously known as Caridina japonica. They are a bigger species of Caridina that are perfect for larger aquaria. But they do have a larval stage in their lifecycle which requires brackish water. Therefor breeding with these shrimp isn’t that easy.
