Frequently Asked Questions

Caridina shrimp are freshwater dwarf shrimp known for their stunning colors and patterns, including popular varieties like Crystal Red Shrimp (CRS), Crystal Black Shrimp (CBS), and Taiwan Bee shrimp [web:1][web:6]. They're highly sought after by aquarium enthusiasts in Singapore for their beauty, active behavior, and fascinating breeding potential [web:9]. Unlike their hardier cousins (neocaridina), caridina shrimp require more precise water parameters, making them a rewarding challenge for dedicated hobbyists.

These shrimp spend their days grazing on biofilm, exploring plants, and displaying mesmerizing colors that can range from deep reds and blacks to striking blue and golden patterns. Their peaceful nature and small size (typically 2-3cm) make them perfect for nano aquariums and planted tanks [web:6].

This is one of the most frequently asked questions in Singapore's tropical climate. The short answer: it's challenging but possible with the right approach.

The Temperature Challenge:

• Caridina shrimp thrive at 20-24°C (68-75°F), with optimal breeding at 20-22°C
• Singapore's room temperature typically ranges from 28-32°C (82-90°F) without air conditioning
• Temperatures above 26°C (78.8°F) cause stress, reduced breeding, shortened lifespan, and increased mortality [ShrimpSpot]

Alternatives to Chillers:

• Air-conditioned rooms: The most cost-effective solution—keep tanks in AC rooms maintained at 23-25°C
• Aquarium cooling fans: Can reduce temperature by 2-3°C through evaporative cooling, but may not be sufficient during Singapore's hottest periods
• Strategic tank placement: Avoid direct sunlight, place near AC vents, use shaded areas
• Reduced lighting duration: Minimize heat from lights during peak temperature hours

Reality Check: For serious caridina keeping in Singapore, budget for either a chiller (S$300-800 depending on tank size) or maintain your tank in a consistently air-conditioned space. The investment ensures healthy, breeding colonies with vibrant colors rather than struggling survivors.

Molting deaths are one of the most frustrating experiences for caridina keepers, and they're almost always preventable with proper water parameters.

The Molting Process: Healthy caridina shrimp molt every 3-4 weeks as they grow. The old exoskeleton should crack at the neck area, allowing the shrimp to back out smoothly. The new shell underneath hardens over 24-48 hours.

Common Causes of Molting Deaths:

• Incorrect GH (General Hardness): The #1 cause—too low GH (below 4) means the new shell is too weak and collapses; too high GH (above 7) makes shells too hard to shed [SKF Aquatics]
• Calcium deficiency: Essential for exoskeleton formation—without adequate calcium, new shells can't properly harden
• KH imbalance: Should be 0-2 for caridina—higher KH interferes with calcium absorption
• "White Ring of Death": Shell cracks around entire body instead of just the neck, trapping the shrimp inside two disconnected shells
• Parameter fluctuations: Sudden TDS, pH, or temperature changes during molt cause incomplete shedding
• Stress: Disturbances during molting when shrimp are most vulnerable

Prevention Strategies:

• Maintain stable GH at 4-6 dGH consistently
• Use proper caridina remineralizers (Salty Shrimp GH+, SL-Aqua Black More, Aquarium Co-Op Shrimp GH+)
• Test water weekly—don't wait for problems to appear
• Avoid water changes larger than 15% to prevent parameter swings
• Feed mineral-rich foods like specialized shrimp pellets
• Minimize disturbances during evening hours when shrimp typically molt

If you notice multiple molting deaths, immediately test GH and KH—these are your first indicators of problems. Adjust gradually using appropriate remineralizers for caridina specifically.

RO (Reverse Osmosis) water is essential for successful caridina keeping in Singapore—our tap water is simply too hard and alkaline.

Why Singapore Tap Water Doesn't Work:

• Singapore tap water typically has GH 3-6, KH 2-4, and pH 7.5-8.5
• Caridina need GH 4-6, KH 0-2, and pH 6.0-6.8—very different parameters
• Tap water's high KH prevents achieving the low pH caridina require
• Contains chlorine and chloramines harmful to shrimp

RO System Setup in Singapore:

Step 1: Choose Your RO System

• 3-stage system (recommended for shrimp): Sediment filter → Carbon pre-filter → RO membrane
• 5-stage system: Remove the post-carbon "taste filter" as it adds unwanted minerals back
• Budget: S$200-500 for home systems available at Lazada/Shopee
• Alternative: Purchase pre-made RO water from aquarium shops (but inconvenient long-term)

Step 2: Remineralization Process

• Pure RO water (0 TDS) cannot support life—it must be remineralized
• Use caridina-specific remineralizers: Salty Shrimp GH+, SL-Aqua Black More
• Target parameters: GH 4-6, KH 0-1, TDS 120-150, pH 6.2-6.8
• Dosing: Follow product instructions carefully—typically 1 gram per 10 liters, but verify with TDS meter

Pro Tips for Singapore:

• RO systems work slower in Singapore's warm water—plan ahead for water changes
• Store RO water in covered containers to prevent contamination
• Replace RO membrane every 1-2 years depending on usage

Active Buffering Substrate (Essential for Caridina): Caridina require active buffering soil that maintains low pH and soft water parameters.

Recommended substrates:

• ADA Amazonia: Premium choice, excellent buffering capacity, lasts 2-3 years [ADA]
• Fluval Shrimp Stratum: Good mid-range option, lighter weight, plant-friendly
• Tropica Aquarium Soil: Balanced nutrients, stable pH buffering [Tropica]

Filtration for Caridina Tanks:

• Sponge filters (Best for shrimp): Gentle flow that won't suck in shrimplets, large surface area for beneficial bacteria
• Sizing: Small for up to 40L, medium for 40-80L, large for 80L+

100% Live Arrival Guarantee when these conditions are met:

• Immediate receipt: Package must be received immediately upon delivery
• Reporting window: DOA must be reported within 3 hours of delivery with clear photos
• Photo documentation: Clear photos of deceased shrimp still in unopened bags

Resolution Options: Replacement shrimp, store credit, or refund for DOA value (shipping non-refundable).

Starting colony size significantly impacts your success rate and breeding timeline. For caridina shrimp, the right number balances cost, genetic diversity, and colony establishment speed [web:35][web:38].

Recommended Starting Numbers:

• Minimum viable colony: 10-15 shrimp [web:35][web:38]
• Ideal starting colony: 20-30 shrimp
• Premium start for faster results: 30-50 shrimp

Why Not Start Smaller?

• Genetic diversity: Starting with just 5-6 shrimp risks inbreeding and weak offspring
• Gender ratio: Small batches might skew heavily male or female, delaying breeding
• Losses buffer: If 2-3 shrimp die during acclimation, a larger colony survives the setback
• Breeding speed: More females = more berried shrimp = faster colony growth
• Visual appeal: Small groups look sparse and spend more time hiding

Tank Size Considerations:

• 30-liter (8-gallon) tank: Start with 10-20 shrimp [web:35]
• 40-liter (10-gallon) tank: Start with 20-30 shrimp [web:35]
• 60-liter (15-gallon) tank: Start with 30-50 shrimp
• 75+ liter tanks: Can comfortably start with 50+ shrimp [web:35]

Budget vs. Growth Timeline:

At S$5-15 per shrimp depending on grade, starting costs vary significantly. A 10-shrimp colony takes 4-6 months to reach 50+ individuals, while starting with 30 shrimp can reach 100+ in the same period. Consider whether you prefer lower initial cost with patience, or faster results with higher investment [web:35].

Pro Tips:

• Buy from the same source to ensure genetic compatibility and matched parameters
• Request mixed grades (not all culls or all SS) for better genetic pool
• Look for berried females in your starting batch—instant head start on breeding
• For beginners: start with 15-20 to balance cost and success probability
• Allow 2-3 weeks settling time before expecting breeding activity

Remember: healthy colonies double every 2-3 months once established [web:35]. Starting slightly larger accelerates reaching sustainable colony size where you can cull, trade, or sell excess shrimp.

Caridina shrimp thrive in soft, slightly acidic water conditions [web:2]. Here are the optimal parameters:

• pH: 6.0 to 6.8 (slightly acidic) [web:2]
• TDS (Total Dissolved Solids): 100-200 ppm [web:2][web:5]
• Temperature: 20-24°C (68-75°F) [web:1][web:2]
• GH (General Hardness): 4-6 dGH [web:2][web:5]
• KH (Carbonate Hardness): 0-2 dKH [web:2][web:5]

Maintaining stable parameters is crucial—fluctuations can cause stress, failed molts, or even death [web:16]. In Singapore's tropical climate, using a chiller or keeping tanks in air-conditioned rooms helps maintain the cooler temperatures caridina prefer. Use RO (reverse osmosis) water remineralized with appropriate shrimp salts to achieve these precise parameters [web:5][web:19].

Caridina shrimp require a well-established tank with mature biofilm and stable water chemistry [web:6]. You should cycle your caridina tank for 4 to 8 weeks before introducing shrimp [web:10]. This extended cycling period allows:

• Beneficial bacteria colonies to fully develop in your filter and substrate
• Active substrates (like buffering soils) to stabilize and properly condition the water
• Biofilm to grow on surfaces, providing essential food for shrimp [web:9]
• Any ammonia or nitrite spikes to resolve completely

During cycling, regularly test for ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates. Only add shrimp when ammonia and nitrites read 0 ppm consistently [web:10]. You can speed up the process by using bacterial starters like Seachem Stability, but don't rush—caridina are sensitive and a mature tank significantly improves survival rates [web:10].

Caridina shrimp are primarily biofilm grazers but benefit from supplemental feeding 2-3 times per week [web:6]. Offer only small amounts that can be consumed within 2-3 hours to prevent water quality issues [web:16]. Recommended foods include:

• Specialized shrimp pellets: High-quality formulas designed for caridina
• Blanched vegetables: Spinach, zucchini, and kale (remove after 24 hours)
• Algae wafers: Rich in minerals for healthy molting
• Biofilm enhancers: Products that promote biofilm growth
• Protein sources: Occasional treats like spirulina or mosquito larvae (once weekly)

Avoid overfeeding—it's the most common mistake beginners make [web:16]. Uneaten food decays, causing ammonia spikes and poor water quality. Shrimp will constantly graze on biofilm and algae even without supplemental feeding, so less is more.

Even experienced aquarists can struggle with caridina initially [web:16][web:19]. The most common mistakes include:

• Using tap water: Tap water typically has high KH/GH causing pH instability—always use RO water with remineralizers [web:19]
• Adding shrimp to new tanks: Insufficient cycling time means no biofilm and unstable parameters [web:16][web:19]
• Temperature fluctuations: Singapore's heat can push tanks above 26°C, which stresses caridina—use cooling fans or chillers [web:19]
• Overfeeding: Leads to ammonia spikes and water quality crashes [web:16]
• Large water changes: Big changes shock shrimp—stick to 10-15% weekly and match temperature/TDS precisely [web:19]
• Incompatible tank mates: Housing with aggressive fish or species that eat shrimp [web:16]
• Disturbing substrate: Creates ammonia spikes from trapped waste [web:19]

Take your time, test parameters regularly, and make gradual changes. Patience is key to success with caridina shrimp.

Breeding caridina shrimp is challenging but incredibly rewarding when conditions are optimal [web:6][web:9]. Key requirements include:

• Stable water parameters: Any fluctuations reduce fertility and breeding activity [web:6]
• Mature tank: At least 3-6 months old with established biofilm [web:9][web:19]
• High-quality diet: Females need extra protein and nutrients before carrying eggs [web:6]
• Dense plant coverage: Java moss and other plants provide hiding spots for shrimplets [web:6][web:9]
• Proper water chemistry: Maintain GH 4-6 and pH 6.2-6.8 for optimal breeding [web:5]

Female caridina carry 20-30 eggs for 28-35 days before hatching fully developed shrimplets [web:9]. Unlike neocaridina, baby caridina are smaller and more delicate, requiring pristine water conditions and abundant biofilm [web:9]. Provide plenty of moss and avoid aggressive tank mates that might prey on newborns.

Healthy caridina shrimp display several clear indicators:

Signs of healthy shrimp:

• Active grazing and constant movement around the tank
• Vibrant, intense coloration without fading
• Swimming smoothly without twitching or erratic darting
• Successfully molting every 3-4 weeks
• Females becoming berried (carrying eggs) regularly
• Antennae and legs intact, not broken or damaged

Warning signs of stress or illness:

• Lethargy or hiding constantly without activity [web:11]
• Swimming erratically or jumping repeatedly [web:11]
• White or opaque coloration (bacterial infection)
• Failed molts or molting too frequently
• Loss of appendages or curled tail (serious stress indicator)
• Not eating or ignoring food

If you notice stress behaviors, immediately test water parameters and check for ammonia, nitrite, or pH swings.

Proper acclimation is critical for caridina survival—they're extremely sensitive to sudden parameter changes [web:11][web:15]. Always use the drip acclimation method:

Step-by-step drip acclimation:

• Preparation: Dim aquarium lights and gather airline tubing, a bucket, and a net [web:11]
• Transfer: Pour shrimp and bag water into a clean container [web:11]
• Start drip: Siphon tank water through airline tubing into the container at 1-2 drops per second [web:15][web:18]
• Wait patiently: Continue for 1-2 hours until container water doubles, or 75% is tank water [web:15][web:18]
• Net transfer: Use a net to transfer shrimp—never pour container water into your tank [web:11][web:18]
• Observe: Watch for stress behaviors like erratic swimming or jumping [web:11]

For shrimp shipped long distances or with very different parameters, extend acclimation to 4-8 hours [web:18]. This slow process dramatically improves survival rates by preventing shock from sudden pH, TDS, or temperature changes [web:11][web:15].

Caridina shrimp don't require special lighting for their health, but proper lighting benefits the overall tank ecosystem. Moderate lighting (6-8 hours daily) supports plant growth and biofilm development, which caridina feed on constantly.

Avoid excessively bright lights, as caridina prefer slightly dimmer environments and may hide if stressed by intense illumination. LED aquarium lights in the 20-40 PAR range work well for planted caridina tanks. If your shrimp are constantly hiding, reduce light intensity or duration, or add floating plants to create shaded areas [web:20].

Remember that stable photoperiods are more important than intensity—keep lighting schedules consistent to avoid stressing your shrimp colony.

While possible, keeping caridina with fish is generally not recommended, especially for breeding colonies [web:16]. Caridina are small and vulnerable, making them targets for most fish species. Even peaceful fish may eat shrimplets or stress adult shrimp, reducing breeding success.

If you must keep tank mates, choose only the smallest, most peaceful species like:

• Otocinclus catfish
• Small rasboras (Chili Rasboras, Emerald Dwarf Rasboras)
• Pygmy corydoras

Avoid any fish with large mouths or aggressive tendencies [web:16]. For best results, maintain caridina in species-only tanks where they can breed freely without predation pressure.

A good shrimp tank prioritizes water stability, surface area for grazing, and safety for small inhabitants. Key features include:

• Appropriate dimensions: Wider tanks (longer length/width) provide more surface area than tall tanks
• Quality glass construction: Consistent thickness and polished edges prevent leaks and stress concentration
• Stable base and level surface: Prevents uneven water pressure that can cause cracks
• Rimless design (optional): Popular aesthetic choice that provides better light penetration for plants
• Easy access: Wide openings for maintenance without disturbing shrimp

Custom tanks can be designed with specific dimensions to fit your space perfectly while optimizing for shrimp keeping—something off-the-shelf aquariums rarely provide. The right tank becomes a stable, long-term home that makes maintenance easier and keeps your shrimp thriving.

For caridina shrimp, a 30-60 liter (8-15 gallon) tank is ideal for beginners [web:10]. This size range offers several advantages:

• Parameter stability: Larger water volume means slower, more gradual parameter changes
• Temperature buffering: More water volume resists temperature swings better—important in Singapore's climate
• Colony growth: Adequate space for a breeding colony to expand (20-50 shrimp)
• Manageable maintenance: Not too large to be overwhelming, but stable enough to be forgiving
• Cost-effective: Reasonable equipment costs without excessive initial investment

Avoid tanks smaller than 20 liters—they're harder to keep stable and less forgiving of mistakes. While experienced keepers can maintain smaller tanks successfully, beginners benefit greatly from the stability larger volumes provide.

Setting up a proper caridina tank requires specific equipment to maintain stable parameters [web:7][web:10]:

Essential equipment:

• Sponge filter: Gentle filtration that won't suck in shrimplets, provides biological filtration [web:7][web:10]
• Air pump: Powers the sponge filter and oxygenates water
• Heater (or chiller): Maintains stable temperature—in Singapore, cooling may be more important than heating
• Active buffering substrate: Essential for caridina—lowers pH and provides minerals [web:10]
• LED lighting: Moderate intensity for plants and biofilm growth
• RO water system: Critical for achieving proper water parameters [web:19]
• Remineralizer salts: GH+ minerals specifically for caridina [web:10]
• TDS meter: Essential for monitoring water parameters accurately
• Test kits: For pH, GH, KH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate

Optional but helpful additions include a small cooling fan, thermometer, and timer for lights. Quality equipment prevents problems and makes long-term success much easier.

Custom shrimp tanks offer significant advantages over mass-produced aquariums:

Design flexibility:

• Perfect fit for your specific space and furniture
• Optimized dimensions for shrimp keeping (more horizontal space)
• Choice of rimless or rimmed construction
• Glass thickness appropriate for tank size and water pressure

Quality advantages:

• Higher-grade glass with better clarity and fewer imperfections
• Stronger silicone sealing for long-term reliability
• Customizable features like built-in overflow boxes or specific inlet placements
• Made-to-order construction means fresher silicone seals

Singapore-specific benefits:

• Local fabrication means better support and warranty service
• Can specify glass type suitable for tropical climate
• Exact sizing for HDB or condo spaces

While custom tanks have higher upfront costs, they often prove more cost-effective long-term through better durability and perfect space utilization.

Caridina tanks require gentle, consistent maintenance to avoid parameter swings:

Weekly maintenance:

• 10-15% water change with temperature and TDS-matched RO water [web:19]
• Test TDS, pH, and temperature
• Light glass cleaning if algae buildup occurs (leave some for grazing)
• Remove any dead plant matter or uneaten food

Monthly maintenance:

• Test full water parameters (GH, KH, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate)
• Gently clean sponge filter in old tank water (never tap water)
• Trim plants as needed
• Check equipment function (heater, air pump, lighting)

What NOT to do:

• Avoid large water changes (over 20%) which shock shrimp [web:19]
• Never disturb the substrate deeply—it releases trapped ammonia [web:19]
• Don't over-clean—biofilm is essential food for caridina
• Never clean filter media in tap water—it kills beneficial bacteria

Established caridina tanks are surprisingly low-maintenance when parameters remain stable. The key is consistent small interventions rather than infrequent large ones.

Caridina thrive with plants that match their soft-water requirements and provide grazing surfaces [web:17][web:20]:

Best plant choices:

• Java Moss: The #1 choice—provides biofilm, hiding spots, and breeding surfaces [web:17][web:20]
• Christmas Moss: Similar to Java moss with more decorative growth patterns [web:20]
• Subwassertang: Excellent for caridina, creates dense cover areas [web:17]
• Anubias species: Hardy, low-light plants that tolerate soft water parameters [web:20]
• Java Fern: Thrives in acidic conditions perfect for caridina [web:20]
• Bucephalandra: Slow-growing, beautiful plants ideal for soft water
• Pearl Weed: Creates carpets where shrimplets can hide and graze [web:20]
• Floating plants: Red Root Floaters absorb excess nutrients and provide shade [web:20]

Mosses are particularly valuable as they accumulate biofilm that shrimp constantly graze on [web:20]. Avoid plants requiring high KH or hard water, as they won't thrive in caridina-specific parameters. Always quarantine new plants or choose tissue-cultured varieties to avoid introducing pesticides that can kill shrimp [web:20].

Ordering a custom shrimp tank from ebiya.sg is a straightforward consultation-based process:

Design process:

• Initial consultation: Discuss your space, budget, and shrimp-keeping goals
• Dimension planning: Measure your available space—we recommend optimal dimensions for shrimp keeping
• Glass specification: Choose glass thickness, type (low-iron for extra clarity), and construction style (rimless/rimmed)
• Feature selection: Add custom elements like specific inlet holes, bracing patterns, or background options
• Quote and timeline: Receive detailed pricing and production schedule

Production and quality:

• Tanks are fabricated locally in Singapore with quality-checked materials
• Each tank undergoes leak testing before delivery
• Typical production time is 1-2 weeks depending on specifications
• Warranty coverage for workmanship and materials

We work closely with you to ensure the final tank perfectly suits both your space and your caridina's needs. Contact us through our website or visit our location to discuss your custom tank project.

Yes, ebiya.sg offers comprehensive delivery and setup services throughout Singapore:

Delivery services:

• Island-wide delivery to HDB, condo, and landed properties
• Careful handling and transport with protective packaging
• Flexible delivery scheduling to accommodate your availability
• Professional delivery team experienced with aquarium handling

Setup assistance:

• Tank placement and leveling on your furniture or stand
• Basic setup guidance for equipment installation
• Water parameter consultation and testing
• Recommendations for your specific space and conditions

Optional services:

• Full aquascaping and planting service
• Complete system setup including filtration and water preparation
• Cycling service to prepare the tank for immediate shrimp addition
• Ongoing maintenance packages for busy hobbyists

Contact us to discuss delivery options and any additional services you need. We're committed to making your shrimp-keeping journey as smooth as possible, from custom tank design through to a thriving colony.

All custom tanks from ebiya.sg come with comprehensive warranty coverage:

• Workmanship warranty: Coverage for silicone seal integrity and glass joint quality
• Leak protection: Free repair or replacement if leaks develop due to manufacturing defects
• Glass quality guarantee: Replacement for defects, cracks, or clarity issues not caused by mishandling
• Installation support: Guidance and troubleshooting during initial setup period

Warranty terms are clearly outlined at purchase, with specific duration based on tank size and construction type. We stand behind our craftsmanship and use only quality materials suitable for Singapore's tropical climate. Proper leveling and support are required to maintain warranty validity.

For detailed warranty terms and conditions, please contact us directly or review the documentation provided with your custom tank order.

Absolutely! Many hobbyists start with standard aquariums before upgrading to optimize for caridina keeping. We can help with:

Equipment upgrades:

• Switching to appropriate sponge filtration from hang-on-back filters
• Adding RO water systems for proper water preparation
• Installing cooling solutions for Singapore's climate
• Upgrading to better lighting for plant growth

Tank replacement benefits:

• Better dimensions optimized for shrimp colony growth
• Higher-quality glass with better clarity
• Rimless design for easier maintenance and better aesthetics
• Proper sizing for your matured understanding of space needs

We offer consultation services to assess your current setup and recommend the most cost-effective upgrades. Sometimes simple equipment changes suffice, while other times a purpose-built custom tank transforms your keeping experience. Contact us to discuss your specific situation and upgrade goals.