Family: Caridina
Distribution: Caridina serratirostris, better known as Ninja Shrimp, has its origins in the Indo-Pacific region. It has been seen in the waters of Madagascar, Philippines, Fiji, Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia and French Polynesia.
PH: 7.0 – 8.0
Temperature: 24 – 27°C (75 – 82°F)
Hardness: 10 – 25 gH
Description: A shy and tiny shrimp – males measure in at a tiny 2 cm in length while females are slightly larger – its name was inspired by Japanese ninja warriors who displayed excellent hiding skills. The Ninja Shrimp, with its ability to change colour rapidly as a means of camouflage, displays these ninja qualities. It has been known to take many colours, including red, yellow, black, grey, blue, and brown. You can expect Caridina serratirostris to live for around 18 months.
Diet: The Ninja Shrimp is omnivorous and will favour algae as its base diet, but will eat normal food as well.
Breeding: Ninja Shrimp reproduce in the form of larval stages, and require salt water conditions. The larvae will adjust to freshwater, but not immediately. As such, care must taken when breeding this species in captivity.
Comments: This species love shadows and dark places, so provide hiding spots and cover to simulate its natural environment. This is not an easy species to maintain – and particularly hard to breed – so it is best suited to those with extensive experience.
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Recommended Compatible Species: Aggressive fish are out of the question. Fish with specialised feeding mouths – Ancistrus, for example – may be compatible in the sense they won’t be able to eat the Ninja Shrimp.
