Princess Bee Shrimp care guide
Princess Bee Shrimp (Paracaridina cf. zhejiangensis) — minimum tank 20 L, temperature 20-26 °C, pH 6.5-7.5.
Overview
Princess Bee Shrimp (Paracaridina cf. zhejiangensis) is a Chinese dwarf shrimp of the family Atyidae, listed in the Aquairi knowledge base as an intermediate-level species. Small Chinese Paracaridina with delicate brown/red banding pattern. Considered intermediate-care between Neocaridina and high-grade Caridina.
Taxonomy
- Family: Atyidae
- Genus: Paracaridina
- Scientific name: Paracaridina cf. zhejiangensis
- Common synonyms: Princess Bee, Zhejiangensis
Habitat
Paracaridina is a small atyid genus described from Chinese inland streams (Zhejiang and adjacent provinces), where the shrimp occupy shaded creeks with soft to moderately mineralised water. Several forms are exported as Princess Bee Shrimp. The Aquairi knowledge base records this entry from: China (Zhejiang).
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 20 L (5.3 US gal)
- Adult size: 2-3 cm
- Temperature: 20-26 °C (68-79 °F)
- pH: 6.5-7.5
- GH: 4-10 °dGH
- KH: 2-6 °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: Otocinclus, Pygmy Cory. Should be kept away from: Crayfish, Cichlids.
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.