Green Babaulti Shrimp

Caridina babaulti is an Indian freshwater shrimp that occurs in several colour forms; the green morph is the most prized, displaying vivid lime-green to olive-green colouration that intensifies with a good diet and optimal water conditions. The green colour is genuinely natural rather than selective breeding, making it a rare example of inherent colour among dwarf shrimp.

Unlike Caridina species from East Asia, Caridina babaulti is adapted to the warmer, moderately hard neutral waters of the Indian subcontinent, making it significantly easier to keep than bee shrimp. It tolerates a broader range of water parameters and can often be maintained in quality dechlorinated tap water.

Green Babaulti Shrimp breed readily in appropriate conditions, producing clutches of eggs that the female carries until hatching. Juveniles are miniature versions of adults and require no special intervention in a mature, established tank.

Water: 22–28°C, pH 6.5–7.5, GH 4–10; moderately soft to hard water; dechlorinated tap water often suitable. Tank: minimum 20 L; dark substrate enhances green colour; mosses and plants for cover. Feeding: biofilm, algae, spirulina wafers, blanched vegetables, shrimp-specific foods. Breeding: moderate ease; females carry 20–30 eggs; juveniles self-sufficient in mature tanks. Compatibility: peaceful; suitable with small shrimp-safe nano fish; do not mix with predatory species.