Red Fancy Tiger Shrimp

Introduction: Introducing the Red Fancy Tiger Shrimp, a captivating freshwater shrimp known for its striking appearance and lively behavior. This vibrant shrimp features bold red and black stripes, making it a popular choice among aquarists. Native to Southeast Asia, particularly in regions like Thailand, the Red Fancy Tiger Shrimp is not only admired for its beauty but also for its interesting interactions within the aquarium, adding a dynamic aspect to any aquatic setup.

Scientific Name: Caridina cf. cantonensis (Red Fancy Tiger Shrimp variety)

Water Quality and Temperature:

• Temperature: Maintain the water temperature between 72°F to 78°F (22°C to 26°C) to replicate their natural habitat.
• pH Level: Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral pH level between 6.5 and 7.5 to create a comfortable environment for the shrimp.
• GH Level: Keep the general hardness (GH) low, ideally between 4 to 8 dGH, to suit their sensitivity to water conditions.
• KH Level: Maintain carbonate hardness (KH) at 1 to 4 dKH for optimal water stability.

Feeding: The Red Fancy Tiger Shrimp is omnivorous and enjoys a varied diet. Provide the following:

• Specialized Shrimp Pellets: Offer high-quality shrimp pellets designed to provide essential nutrients.
• Vegetables: Include blanched vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or carrots to supplement their diet with fiber.
• Biofilm and Algae: Allow biofilm and algae to develop in the tank, as the shrimp will graze on these natural food sources.

Tank Mates: The Red Fancy Tiger Shrimp is generally peaceful and can coexist with various community fish, provided the tank mates are not aggressive or overly large. Suitable companions include small tetras, rasboras, and peaceful dwarf cichlids. Avoid larger or predatory fish, as they may see the shrimp as food. Keeping multiple shrimp together enhances their natural behavior and encourages social interactions.

Substrates and Tank Decorations: A fine, sandy substrate or small-grain gravel is ideal for Red Fancy Tiger Shrimp, as it allows them to burrow and forage comfortably. Incorporate plenty of hiding spots using driftwood, rocks, and caves to provide shelter and reduce stress. Live plants such as Java moss, Anubias, and floating plants create a natural environment and offer additional grazing surfaces for biofilm and algae.

Suitable Plants: Red Fancy Tiger Shrimp thrive in a planted aquarium with hardy plants that can tolerate varying water conditions. Java moss, Hornwort, and Cryptocoryne species are excellent choices, providing both cover and grazing opportunities. Floating plants can also help diffuse light and provide shaded areas.

Sexing: Sexing Red Fancy Tiger Shrimp can be done by observing their size and coloration. Females are generally larger and have a broader, more rounded abdomen, often exhibiting a more intense coloration, especially when carrying eggs. Males are usually smaller and have a slimmer body.

Breeding: Breeding Red Fancy Tiger Shrimp in captivity is achievable with the right conditions. They are prolific breeders and can carry up to 30 to 50 eggs at a time. To encourage breeding, maintain stable water parameters, and ensure the shrimp are well-fed. After hatching, the tiny shrimp will resemble miniature adults and can be raised in the same tank if the environment is suitable and the tank mates are safe.

Maximum Size and Longevity: Red Fancy Tiger Shrimp typically grow to about 1.5 to 2 inches (4 to 5 cm) in length. With proper care, they can live up to 2 to 3 years in captivity.

General Information: The Red Fancy Tiger Shrimp is a visually striking addition to any freshwater aquarium, known for its beautiful coloration and active behavior. They are excellent scavengers, helping maintain tank cleanliness by consuming leftover food and detritus. A well-maintained tank with appropriate water conditions and a varied diet will ensure their health and vibrant appearance.

A Fun Fact: The vivid coloration of the Red Fancy Tiger Shrimp is a result of selective breeding and can vary significantly among individuals, leading to unique patterns and intensities in coloration that make each shrimp a beautiful addition to the tank.