Crystal Black Shrimp

Description

Common name:
Crystal Black Shrimp

Scientific name:
Caridina cantonensis

Chinese name:
水晶黑虾

Japanese name:
クリスタルブラックシュリンプ

Size:
2–3 cm

Lifespan:
1.5–2 years

Level:
Advanced

Family:
Atyidae

pH:
5.8–6.8

Origin:
Selective bred from South China lineage

Water hardness:
Soft (3–6 dGH)

Diet:
Omnivore (shrimp pellets, biofilm, blanched vegetables)

Ideal water Temperature:
20–24°C

Special care:
Requires soft, slightly acidic water; stable parameters essential; avoid copper

Behavior:
Peaceful, active grazer

Pros and cons:
Pros: Elegant black and white pattern, ideal for shrimp-only tanks
Cons: Sensitive to water changes, requires stable soft water conditions

Long description:
Crystal Black Shrimp are a selectively bred Caridina species known for their striking black and white banded pattern. They thrive best in shrimp-dedicated aquariums with soft, slightly acidic water and stable parameters. Moss and plants provide natural grazing surfaces and shelter, helping them feel secure and breed successfully. Due to their sensitivity, they are recommended for experienced hobbyists who can maintain consistent water quality and proper mineral balance.

Photos are for illustration purposes only. Please refer to the stated dimensions for accurate sizing. We welcome you to visit our shop to personally select your fish.

Feel free to WhatsApp us with any questions, or drop by our shop for a consultation — we’re here to help you get everything right for your aquarium setup.

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Visit our shop near Outram park MRT 5 Everton park #01-34 080005

Crystal Black Shrimp: A Step Up for SG Keepers

The Crystal Black is the elegant, more demanding cousin of the cherry shrimp, prized for its crisp black-and-white banding. Unlike hardy Neocaridina, this Caridina line wants soft, slightly acidic water and rewards patience over shortcuts. We point keepers to active soil substrate that buffers pH down, plus RO water remineralised specifically for Caridina, because Singapore’s chloraminated tap straight from the wall is the wrong starting base for them.

Stability is everything here. These shrimp react sharply to swings in temperature, TDS, or pH, so a steady tank with mature biofilm matters more than any single ideal number. Our warm 27-29C ambient runs above their preferred range, so a chiller or strong fan is often worthwhile to protect molting and breeding. Keep the tank copper-free, feed lightly, and avoid overstocking; a calm, established shrimp-only tank is where they truly thrive.

See our shrimp and care stock under general supplies. Read our Crystal Black care guide, our Caridina cantonensis overview, and the Caridina vs Neocaridina differences.