Indian Stripe Shrimp care guide
Indian Stripe Shrimp (Caridina cf. babaulti 'Stripe') — minimum tank 20 L, temperature 22-28 °C, pH 6.8-8.
Overview
Indian Stripe Shrimp (Caridina cf. babaulti 'Stripe') is a freshwater dwarf shrimp of the family Atyidae, listed in the Aquairi knowledge base as an intermediate-level species. Striped morph of Indian Caridina with thin black bars on a translucent green/brown body. Algae and biofilm grazer.
Taxonomy
- Family: Atyidae
- Genus: Caridina
- Scientific name: Caridina cf. babaulti 'Stripe'
- Common synonyms: Striped Babaulti, Indian Zebra Shrimp
Habitat
Caridina babaulti is widely distributed in lowland freshwaters of India, Bangladesh and adjacent regions, occurring in slow streams, ponds and irrigation systems with soft to moderately hard water. Several colour morphs and the related "Stripe" form are exported under the babaulti label. The Aquairi knowledge base records this entry from: India.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 20 L (5.3 US gal)
- Adult size: 2-3 cm
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 6.8-8
- GH: 6-14 °dGH
- KH: 2-8 °dKH
- Lifespan: 1-2 years
Diet
A grazing detritivore. In the aquarium the shrimp continuously feeds on biofilm, soft algae, decaying plant matter and dropped food. A small daily ration of a shrimp-formulated sinking pellet, occasional blanched spinach or zucchini and rare protein wafers keep the colony in good condition without polluting the water.
Compatibility
Peaceful and best kept in a colony of ten or more in a stable, well-cycled, planted aquarium. Suitable tank mates listed in the Aquairi knowledge base: Otocinclus, Pygmy Cory, Nerite Snail. Should be kept away from: Cichlids, Crayfish.
Breeding
Reproduces in fresh water without a planktonic larval stage. Mature females develop ripe ovaries visible as a yellow or olive "saddle" on the back; after a successful moult they are fertilised by males and carry the fertilised eggs under the pleopods for roughly three to four weeks before juveniles hatch as miniature fully-formed shrimp. Stable parameters and absence of predation are the main success factors.