Black Galaxy Pinto Shrimp

Black Galaxy Pinto Shrimp (Caridina cf. cantonensis var. ‘Black Galaxy Pinto’, also known as Black Galaxy, Galaxy Pinto, or Black Pinto with galaxy patterns) are a premium, selectively bred freshwater aquarium shrimp from the Taiwan Bee lineage, famous for their dramatic black base contrasted with bright white “galaxy” spots on the head/cheeks (resembling starry clusters), along with zebra/fishbone stripes, mottling, or tiger-like patterns down the body. These high-contrast hybrids (often from Pinto + Tiger/Boa crosses) deliver an explosive, starry-night-sky look in deep black with crisp white accents — one of the most striking and sought-after patterns in the Caridina world.

Key Features & Appearance

• Coloration: Deep velvety black (sometimes with subtle blue hints) body with prominent white galaxy spots on the head/cheeks, bold zebra/fishbone stripes along the back, and variable white mottling or patches; high-grade (S-SSS+) lines maximize spot density, stripe sharpness, and black coverage for intense drama.
• Size: Adults typically 1–1.2 inches (2.5–3 cm); juveniles arrive smaller and pattern develops with age.
• Behavior: Peaceful, somewhat shy grazers that forage on biofilm, algae, detritus, and decaying plant matter — great for natural cleanup. They do best in groups (10+ for breeding success and reduced stress) and are active but seek hiding spots in planted setups.
• Lifespan: 1–2 years (up to 18–24 months) with excellent care.

These sensitive Caridina are advanced keepers’ territory but offer unmatched visual impact in dialed-in tanks.

Care Requirements

• Tank Size: 10+ gallons recommended; larger for stable parameters.
• Water Parameters (critical for survival and color/pattern retention):
  • Temperature: 20–26°C (68–79°F); optimal 22–24°C.
  • pH: 5.8–6.8 (acidic; remineralized RO water with bee shrimp salts).
  • GH: 4–6, KH: 0–2 (very soft, low carbonate to prevent molting failures).
  • TDS: 120–180 ppm typical for high grades.
• Setup Tips: Active buffering substrate (e.g., ADA Amazonia), dense moss (Java/Christmas), botanicals (Indian almond leaves, alder cones), driftwood, leaf litter for biofilm, hiding, and natural acidity. Low-flow sponge filters protect shrimplets; avoid copper, overfeeding, or any swings.
• Diet: Biofilm/algae main; supplement lightly with shrimp-specific foods, blanched veggies, or pellets — minimal feeding prevents crashes.
• 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. Soft/acidic stability, cover, and selective breeding maintain elite patterns.

At Valley Aquatics, Black Galaxy Pinto Shrimp are a top-tier draw for Abbotsford’s advanced planted-tank enthusiasts