Cardinal Sulawesi Shrimp care guide
Cardinal Sulawesi Shrimp (Caridina dennerli) — minimum tank 20 L, temperature 27-30 °C, pH 7.5-8.5.
Overview
The Cardinal Sulawesi Shrimp (Caridina dennerli) is a small endemic shrimp from Indonesia, distinguished by a deep red body covered with bright white spots on the carapace and pereiopods, and contrasting white-tipped walking legs. It is one of the most striking dwarf shrimp species in the trade.
Taxonomy
- Family: Atyidae
- Genus: Caridina
- Scientific name: Caridina dennerli
- Common synonyms: Cardinal Shrimp, Dennerle Shrimp
Habitat
Endemic to a small group of ancient tectonic lakes on the island of Sulawesi, particularly Lake Matano. The species requires very warm, hard, alkaline water with stable parameters — a sharp contrast to most other freshwater shrimp species.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 20 L (5.3 US gal)
- Adult size: 1-2 cm
- Temperature: 27-30 °C (81-86 °F)
- pH: 7.5-8.5
- GH: 6-10 °dGH
- Water flow: low
- Lifespan: 1-2 years
Diet
A grazing omnivore feeding on biofilm and decaying plant material in nature. In aquaria a specialised diet of bee shrimp pellets, biofilm-rich surfaces and very small amounts of blanched vegetables or protein wafers supports the colony.
Compatibility
Peaceful and best maintained in a species-only colony, given the unusual water-parameter requirements. Fish tank mates are not recommended; small Sulawesi snails such as Tylomelania may share the conditions.
Breeding
Reproduces directly in fresh water without a larval stage. Females carry small clutches of approximately 15-25 eggs under the pleopods for about 30 days; juveniles are tiny and require mature biofilm surfaces and undisturbed conditions to survive.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Critically Endangered. The wild range is restricted to a single small lake severely impacted by introduced fish and water-quality decline; captive-bred specimens are strongly preferred over wild-caught individuals.