Sulawesi Black Diamond Shrimp care guide
Sulawesi Black Diamond Shrimp (Caridina spinata 'Black Diamond') — minimum tank 40 L, temperature 27-30 °C, pH 7.8-8.5.
Overview
Sulawesi Black Diamond Shrimp (Caridina spinata 'Black Diamond') is an endemic Sulawesi dwarf shrimp of the family Atyidae, listed in the Aquairi knowledge base as an expert-level species. Deep purple-black Sulawesi shrimp with white-tipped legs. Demands hard alkaline warm water — Sulawesi profile.
Taxonomy
- Family: Atyidae
- Genus: Caridina
- Scientific name: Caridina spinata 'Black Diamond'
- Common synonyms: Sulawesi Black Diamond
Habitat
Endemic Sulawesi Caridina inhabit the ancient lakes Matano, Mahalona, Towuti and adjacent systems on the Indonesian island of Sulawesi. These tectonic lakes carry hard, alkaline and warm water — a chemistry unique among freshwater shrimp habitats — and the genus has radiated locally into many narrowly-distributed species. The Aquairi knowledge base records this entry from: Sulawesi (Indonesia).
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 40 L (10.6 US gal)
- Adult size: 1-2 cm
- Temperature: 27-30 °C (81-86 °F)
- pH: 7.8-8.5
- GH: 6-8 °dGH
- KH: 4-8 °dKH
- Lifespan: 1-2 years
Diet
A grazing detritivore. In the aquarium the animal 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: Other Sulawesi shrimp, Tylomelania snails. Should be kept away from: Most fish, Cantonensis shrimp, Neocaridina.
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 the male and carry fertilised eggs under the pleopods for roughly three to four weeks before juveniles hatch as miniature fully-formed individuals. Stable parameters and absence of predation are the main success factors.