Black Fancy Tiger Shrimp

Black Fancy Tiger Shrimp (Caridina sp. “Black Tiger” or Caridina cf. cantonensis var. ‘Black Fancy Tiger’, often abbreviated BFT) are a rare, selectively bred premium freshwater aquarium shrimp celebrated for their striking deep black base contrasted with bold white tiger-like stripes, bands, and irregular patterns. These high-contrast beauties feature jet-black bodies with crisp white zebra/tiger striping across the segments, legs, and sometimes mottling — creating a dramatic, tuxedo-striped or tiger-patterned appearance that’s unique to each individual, with no two exactly alike due to complex genetics.

Key Features & Appearance

• Coloration: Deep, velvety black (sometimes with subtle blue-black sheen) dominant, accented by sharp white stripes, bands, or patches mimicking tiger markings; high-grade (SS-SSS+) lines show intense black coverage, clean white contrasts, and intricate leg banding for maximum visual pop.
• Size: Adults typically 1–1.2 inches (2.5–3 cm); often sold smaller (~0.5 inch) for easier acclimation.
• Behavior: Peaceful, active grazers that forage on biofilm, algae, detritus, and decaying matter — excellent natural cleaners. They thrive in colonies (10+ recommended) and are somewhat shy but engaging in stable setups.
• Lifespan: 1–2 years with precise care.

These advanced Caridina are notoriously challenging to breed due to complex genetics (often from Crystal Black + Tiger crosses), but they reward dedicated keepers with stunning, one-of-a-kind patterns and colony potential.

Care Requirements

• Tank Size: 10+ gallons ideal; larger for parameter stability in sensitive colonies.
• Water Parameters (essential):
  • Temperature: 20–26°C (68–79°F); optimal 22–24°C.
  • pH: 5.8–6.8 (acidic; RO remineralized with bee shrimp salts).
  • GH: 4–6, KH: 0–2 (very soft, low carbonate for molting).
  • TDS: 120–180 ppm typical.
• Setup Tips: Active buffering substrate (e.g., ADA Amazonia), dense moss, botanicals (Indian almond leaves, alder cones), driftwood, leaf litter for biofilm/hiding/acidity. Low-flow sponge filters; avoid copper, overfeeding, or fluctuations.
• Diet: Biofilm/algae primary; supplement lightly with high-quality shrimp foods, blanched veggies, or pellets — strong attractants help maintain color and breeding vigor.
• Compatibility: Shrimp-only or ultra-peaceful nano tanks (small rasboras, otos, snails). Avoid aggressive fish, mixing with other Caridina (cross-breeding risks), or unstable conditions.

Breeding: Females carry turquoise/blue eggs/saddle, hatching 10–30+ shrimplets after 3–5 weeks. Success requires soft/acidic stability, cover, and careful selection for pattern traits.

At Valley Aquatics, Black Fancy Tiger Shrimp are an elite pick for Abbotsford’s advanced hobbyists