Crystal Black Shrimp

Crystal Black Shrimp (Caridina cf. cantonensis, also known as Crystal Black or CBS) are the striking black-and-white counterpart to Crystal Red Shrimp, prized for their dramatic, high-contrast patterns that give them a bold, tuxedo-like or panda-esque appearance. Selectively bred from the same bee shrimp lineage as CRS, high-grade Crystal Blacks feature deep, velvety black bands or blocks contrasting sharply against pure white or translucent sections — especially impressive in elite lines where black dominates with crisp white accents.

Key Features & Appearance

• Coloration: Bold black-and-white patterns; graded from C (basic) to SSSS (elite Pure Black Line/PBL or high black coverage) with intense, opaque black and minimal interruptions for maximum drama.
• Size: Adults typically 1–1.2 inches (2.5–3 cm); juveniles develop patterning as they grow.
• Behavior: Peaceful, somewhat shy grazers that forage on biofilm, algae, detritus, and plant matter — great for subtle tank maintenance. They prefer groups (10+ for comfort and breeding) and are active but often hide in dense setups.
• Lifespan: 1–2 years with optimal care.

Like other Caridina, these are more sensitive than Neocaridina but deliver stunning visual impact in stable, low-pH environments.

Care Requirements

• Tank Size: 10+ gallons recommended; larger tanks help maintain stable parameters for these sensitive shrimp.
• Water Parameters (essential for success):
  • Temperature: 20–26°C (68–79°F); optimal 22–24°C — keep consistent.
  • pH: 5.8–6.8 (acidic preferred; use RO water + bee shrimp minerals).
  • GH: 4–6, KH: 0–2 (soft, low carbonate to support molting).
  • TDS: 120–180 ppm typical for premium grades.
• Setup Tips: Buffering active substrate (e.g., ADA Amazonia or similar), heavy planting with moss, botanicals (Indian almond leaves, alder cones), driftwood, and leaf litter for biofilm, hiding, and natural acidity. Low-flow sponge filters protect shrimplets; strictly avoid copper, ammonia spikes, or parameter swings.
• Diet: Primarily biofilm/algae; feed sparingly with specialized shrimp foods, blanched veggies, or pellets — excess food can destabilize water quickly.
• Compatibility: Ideal for shrimp-only or ultra-peaceful nano tanks (small rasboras, otos, snails). Avoid aggressive fish, Neocaridina mixes (cross-breeding issues), or unstable conditions.

Breeding: Females carry turquoise/blue eggs/saddle, hatching 10–30+ shrimplets after 3–5 weeks. Success depends on soft/acidic stability and plenty of cover for fry.

At Valley Aquatics, Crystal Black Shrimp are a premium favorite for Abbotsford hobbyists chasing high-contrast, elegant color in planted tanks — their black-and-white drama pairs beautifully with your botanicals!