Catalog / invertebrates / Crystal red shrimp
invertebrate · Atyidae
Crystal red shrimp
Caridina cantonensis
Wild range: China, Japan, Vietnam (Asia)

At a glance: Crystal red shrimp care
Compiled reference information. Review the care notes and original sources below.
What temperature is listed for Crystal red shrimp?
The compiled profile lists 20.0–26.7 °C for Crystal red shrimp (Caridina cantonensis). Check the original sources below for context and differing recommendations.
What tank size is listed for Crystal red shrimp?
The profile lists a minimum tank volume of 2.0 US gallons (7.6 liters). Volume alone does not establish suitability; consider dimensions, group size and other inhabitants alongside the full care notes.
What pH is listed for Crystal red shrimp?
The compiled profile lists a pH of 6.0–7.5. Review the cited care sources alongside the other water parameters in this profile.
Natural habitat
Crystal Red Shrimp are bred for aquarium purpose and do not exist in the wild. Their wild ancestor, the Bee Shrimp, thrives in mountain streams in subtropical ecosystems with soft and slightly acidic water.
Where they are found
This species is indigenous to Taiwan, where they are often found in small streams and rivers. The water is typically clean and well-oxygenated, with a rich presence of algae and biofilm, which serves as a natural food source.
Aquarium care
To successfully care for Crystal Red Shrimp, maintain a tank environment with soft, acidic water. Regular water changes and monitoring of water parameters are crucial to their health. Ensure a plentiful supply of biofilm and algae for grazing, and consider using a substrate that promotes mineral recycling.
Feeding
Feed crystal red shrimp a varied diet including high-quality shrimp pellets, blanched vegetables, and occasional protein sources like bloodworms. Supplement with biofilm from live plants to support nutrient requirements.
Compatibility
While generally peaceful, Crystal Red Shrimp may not fare well with aggressive fish species. They can coexist with other non-aggressive aquarium mates, making them suitable for community tanks with proper design to ensure safety and comfort.
Breeding
Breeding Crystal Red Shrimp is relatively straightforward in optimal conditions. It’s crucial to ensure stable water parameters and provide abundant food sources. The females will carry the fertilized eggs under their tails until they hatch into free-swimming larvae, which will require suitable conditions to thrive.
Sources
Compiled from multiple independent care sheets — not copied from a single site.