Caridina spinata Sulawesi Harlequin Shrimp

Caridina spinata is one of the most visually ornate Sulawesi shrimp species, native to the ancient lakes of Sulawesi, Indonesia. Its dramatic cream-and-red spotted harlequin pattern — a mosaic of round red spots on a pale base — makes it one of the most striking freshwater shrimp available in the hobby. Unlike most Caridina which require soft, acidic water, C. spinata demands the opposite: warm (26–30°C), alkaline (pH 7.5–8.5), moderately hard water that replicates the unique geochemistry of Sulawesi's ancient lake systems. A dedicated Sulawesi biotope tank with specially prepared water, smooth hardscape, and gentle filtration is essential. Best kept in a species-only or mixed-Sulawesi species setup.

Water: pH 7.5–8.5, TDS 200–350 ppm, temperature 26–30°C; warm, alkaline Sulawesi water with dedicated mineral additive — never use acidic or soft water. Tank: 30–60 litres dedicated Sulawesi biotope; smooth pebbles, no sharp edges; sponge filtration. Feeding: Biofilm, microalgae, fine Sulawesi shrimp foods; avoid overfeeding. Breeding: Small clutches; highly sensitive to parameter deviations during brooding. Compatibility: Species-only or with other Sulawesi Caridina at identical parameters; no fish.