🦐 Caridina cantonensis “Black Fancy Tiger”
📌 Description
Black Fancy Tiger is a selectively bred freshwater shrimp variety of Caridina cantonensis. It is highly valued in the aquarium hobby for its striking black-and-white contrast and tiger-like striping pattern. Some lines may also display intense dark coloration with irregular white bands and distinctive eyes (often orange or dark, depending on the lineage).
Adult size typically reaches 2–3 cm (0.8–1.2 inches). Females are generally larger, fuller-bodied, and more intensely colored than males.
🌡 Water Parameters & Requirements
This variety is more demanding than Neocaridina shrimp.
Temperature: 20–24°C (68–75°F)
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic)
GH: 4–6 dGH
KH: 0–1 dKH
TDS: approx. 120–150 ppm
Size: ~1.5cm (unsexed juveniles)
Active substrate recommended (to maintain low pH)
RO water with a Caridina-specific remineralizer is preferred
Stable water parameters are essential.
🍃 Behavior
Peaceful and non-aggressive
Best kept in species-only tanks
Enjoys mosses, plants, and hiding places
Sensitive to sudden parameter changes
🍽 Diet
Biofilm and microorganisms
Specialized shrimp food for Caridina
Indian almond leaves, oak leaves
Occasionally blanched vegetables
🐣 Breeding
Breeds in freshwater
Females carry eggs for about 3–4 weeks
Shrimplets hatch fully formed
Stable, clean water is crucial for successful breeding