Skittle Mix Shrimp 2cm

Skittle Mix Shrimp

Cherry shrimp are an absolute eye catcher and staple species in the aquarium trade, They make for great entry-level invertebrates for novice aquarists who want to branch out from just keeping fish. Normally, these shrimp are known for their bright cherry colours however, the art of selective breeding allows these shrimp to come in an absolute skittles mix of colours. Because of their incredibly small size, ease of care, fast breeding, and bright colours, they are loved by both beginners and experienced aquarium enthusiasts.

Skittle shrimp are aptly named because there a multiple colours in this mix like a box of Skittles. The colours can range from red, yellow, blue, green, clear, and more, which makes them stunning, especially in larger numbers. Multiple factors can affect the intensity of colours, such as genetics, water parameters, and environmental conditions. These are a great shrimp to populate a nano aquarium or to experiment with developing the grade to create more intense coloured shrimp. These shrimp can tolerate a wide range of aquarium conditions and thrive in both cold and tropical environments. They are also a great cleanup crew member in nano community aquariums; however, with their unique colours would make for a beautiful standalone shrimp display.

Skittle shrimp are great for nano desktop aquariums as they max out at around 5cm and breed very proficiently once settled in. Whilst differentiating males and females in these shrimp is possible, as females tend to have a more curved body with the presence of a saddle, it would be quite easy to just get a group of these shrimp and let them breed naturally. These shrimp make them a popular species for novice breeders looking to make some easy profit.

Tank Recommendations for your Skittle Mix Shrimp

The skittle shrimp only reach 5cm and can be kept easily in aquariums as small as 20 litres. Ideally, a 30-litre aquarium with some moss and a basic sponge filter would be a perfect environment for these shrimp, as it ensures a safe method of filtration and provides cover for juvenile shrimp. Shrimp are not overly concerned with their aquascape, they can be kept on a multitude of substrates, ranging from sand, aquasoil, and gravel to hardscape materials such as wood and rock. They will also greatly appreciate plants, as this provides great cover whilst also making them contrast really well.

In a breeding setting, aquarists commonly keep shrimp just a substrate of thin aquasoil as the dark soil contrasts with these bright skittle shrimp. It is also easy to catch the best-looking individuals to linebreed them further. Elevated temperatures of 25 degrees also enhance their metabolism, meaning they grow faster and breed faster, which is ideal for breeding settings.

Suitable Tank Buddies

The skittle cherry shrimp remain small and can easily be predated on by fish. It is usually recommended to keep these shrimp alone, as even the smallest of fish will prey on newborn shrimp. Adult shrimp, however, can be kept with a wide range of nano fish with no issue, and if there is adequate cover for baby shrimp to survive, they will grow fine as well.

Usually Compatible

Other strains of shrimp, endler guppies, dwarf Corydoras, and other fish, which max out at 5cm or less.

Sometimes Compatible

Much risk shouldn't be taken with larger tank mates over 5cm, as these will easily prey on these shrimp; however, success has been seen with other fish species such as larger danios and betta.

Rarely Compatible

Dwarf cichlids, tiger barbs, goldfish, and other species that would readily prey on the shrimp.

Feeding your Skittle Mix Shrimp

Feeding skittle 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.