Caridina Spinata Shrimp

Caridina spinata is an endemic shrimp of the ancient Sulawesi Malili lake system displaying a glossy dark blue-black or dark brown body covered with bold, brilliant white circular spots and striking blue eyes. The combination of dark body, white polka dots, and vivid blue eyes produces one of the most visually dramatic appearances of any freshwater invertebrate.

As a Sulawesi lake endemic, Caridina spinata requires the warm, hard, alkaline water conditions of its native ancient lakes — conditions very different from those needed for East Asian Caridina species. A dedicated Sulawesi biotope aquarium with appropriate mineral supplementation of RO water is mandatory for long-term success.

Caridina spinata is rarely available and highly prized. Captive breeding produces small clutches of large eggs; juveniles are slow to develop and sensitive to water quality. This is a species for specialist invertebrate keepers with established Sulawesi setups.

Water: 27–30°C, pH 7.5–8.5, GH 6–10, KH 4–8; RO water with Sulawesi mineral supplement only. Tank: minimum 30 L Sulawesi biotope; algae-covered smooth rocks; fine sand; no copper at all. Feeding: natural biofilm and algae; supplement with spirulina powder and Sulawesi-specific shrimp foods. Breeding: difficult; 8–15 large eggs per clutch; juveniles sensitive and slow-growing. Compatibility: Sulawesi biotope only; no fish; compatible Sulawesi shrimp species only.