About the species

Super Crystal Black is a high-grade black-and-white bee shrimp where the white is denser and more extensive than in an ordinary Crystal Black. The contrast between the opaque white and the deep black becomes very sharp, especially under good lighting.

Facts

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

Behavior

Super Crystal Black 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

Super Crystal Black 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

Super Crystal Black gives maximum black-and-white contrast and suits keepers who already have Crystal shrimp experience. Keep the line pure and avoid crossing with Taiwan Bee if you want to preserve the classic banding.