Family: Caridina
Distribution: Caridina cf. spongicola, known best as Harlequin Shrimp, has its origins around the Indonesian Island Sulawesi, specifically in the Malili Lake system.
PH: 7.5 – 8.0
Temperature: 26– 29°C (78 – 84°F)
Hardness: 5 kH; gH 12
Description: Harlequin shrimp are tiny and will reach a maximum size of 1.5 cm. It is a mixture of black, red and white, which makes it one of the most unique and desirable dwarf shrimp among hobbyists. This species’ distinctive colouration has often seen it dubbed the Rainbow Shrimp. The females have blue-tipped abdominal legs, while males have transparent legs. Another distinguishing feature of Caridina spongicola is its leaf-shaped pair of antennae. This shy, unassuming species will unveil its beautiful colouration as soon as it is properly acclimatised to your aquarium.
Diet: Shrimp from the Sulawesi region can be fed algae water, fish flakes and pellets. You should only feed it once a day, but in saying that, the Harlequin Shrimp seems to prefer being fed at night.
Breeding: Caridina sp. spongicola breeds in freshwater and does not have a larval stage. The females will hold the eggs until they hatch, usually after around 25 – 30 days. The babies show the same colour as the adults, but the colouration will become more intense as they get older.
Comments: It is a difficult species to maintain and should only be attempted by experienced hobbyists. You should provide plenty of vegetation in your tank for shelter and nutritional purposes. It is important, as with all shrimp species, to avoid any traces of copper in your tank.
Tip: The Harlequin Shrimp is a very shy species and will gradually grow in confidence as it becomes accustomed to its tank environment. If you notice the shrimp is constantly in hiding then it there may be a problem: the water conditions may not be quite right, it may fear the predators in the tank, or it just needs more time to get comfortable.
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Recommended Compatible Species: Due to its size and shyness, this shrimp is recommended only to experienced hobbyists. It should not be housed with large, aggressive fish, for obvious reasons. It is most likely suited to other dwarf shrimp species.
Originally posted 2009-12-20 11:11:52. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
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