Shrimp - Caridina Darwin Algae 1cm

Shrimp - Caridina Darwin Algae

The Darwin is an adorable native Australian freshwater shrimp that will be a great clean-up crew member in a planted aquarium. These little invertebrates are very popular among shrimp keepers as the Caridina Shrimp in general tend to be export-oriented shrimp due to the water requirements they prefer. These Darwin Algae eaters will be a great way to enter the world of these shrimp as they are actually much cheaper when compared to the prices that other colours of Caridina Shrimp fetch.

The Darwin Algae Shrimp only measures up to around 2.5 cm when fully grown. This makes them perfect for smaller aquariums and will be almost invisible when added to the aquarium. They pretty much look like glass shrimp with a faint red outline across the shell and nose. Across the face and tail area, the Darwin Algae Shrimp have small star-like white spots that stand out ever so slightly from the clear body.

One of the biggest benefits to these shrimp is how much of a utilitarian species they are in the aquarium picking at hair algae and keeping the biofilm levels at a minimum by eating it. They also add virtually nothing to the bio-load level in the aquarium which really does make it a no-brainer when adding them into the aquarium. Breeding Darwin Algae Shrimps is certainly possible in a home aquarium and it really does not require much direct effort however the water parameters are correct.

Males mount the female when both sexes are mature and fertilize the female. The mother then carries the eggs, which are initially green but turn to a dark brown colour just before hatching. The parents provide no care for the young, who are basically miniature replicas of the adults and start fending for themselves right away. Triggering the breeding in these shrimp can sometimes be difficult as they are particularly sensitive to water parameters such as the total dissolved solids (TDS) and PH which is why aquarists often use rainwater or RODI and then remineralize the water with minerals to suit the shrimp.

Tank Recommendations for your Shrimp - Caridina Darwin Algae

A tank of 40 litres is a good starting point for these shrimps, but they can also thrive in larger systems as well. These Algae Shrimp will enjoy a well-planted aquarium with hiding spots like caves and tunnels. Using a gentle but efficient filtration system would be perfect and a great cost-effective option is a sponge filter. Whilst adult shrimp can absolutely handle faster flow, newborn shrimp can be weaker. The water temperature should be kept between 20-26°C with a pH level of 6.0-7.0.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Darwin Algae Shrimp are peaceful and can coexist with a variety of small, non-aggressive tankmates.

Usually Compatible

Small, peaceful fish like Maculatus Rasboras, Endler Guppies, Galaxy Pearl Danios, and similar nano species.

Sometimes Compatible

Larger tetras, bettas, smaller gourami species, and other smaller species may nip at the shrimp.

Rarely Compatible

Aggressive, predatory fish, or large bottom dwellers, may see the shrimp as a snack.

Feeding your Shrimp - Caridina Darwin Algae

Feeding Darwin Algae Shrimp is extremely easy as they only require small amounts of food and accept a wide range of food as well. Generally, a small sinking pellet or algae tablet is a great food option. Along with this, they can be supplemented with blanched veggies such as pumpkin and zucchini.