About the species

Crystal Black - High is the black-and-white counterpart to Crystal Red and one of the most classic bee shrimp. The High grade has broad, dense white bands against deep black for maximum contrast. It needs soft, acidic water and stable values.

Facts

• Latin name: Caridina cantonensis
• Common name: Crystal Black - High
• Size: Up to 3 cm
• Lifespan: 1.5–2 years

Behavior

Crystal Black - High is a peaceful and curious shrimp that grazes across the whole aquarium throughout the day. It thrives best in a group of at least ten and appreciates moss, leaf litter and plenty of hiding places.

Reproduction

• Females usually carry 20–30 eggs under the tail
• The eggs hatch after about 30 days as fully developed shrimplets
• Requires soft, acidic and very stable water in order to breed

Feeding

Crystal Black - High is an omnivore with a clear plant bias and feeds on:

• Biofilm
• Algae
• Decaying leaves and plant matter

Feel free to supplement with:

• A Caridina-specific shrimp food
• Catappa or mulberry leaves
• Protein food, sparingly

Aquarium

• Minimum aquarium size: 30 litres
• Substrate: Active soil (we use Environment Soil)

Difficulty level

🟡 Moderate

Recommendation

Crystal Black - High gives the sharpest black-and-white contrast among the bee shrimp. The black colour is generally somewhat more stable in inheritance than the red. Active soil, remineralised RO water and small water changes are the basis for a thriving colony.