Sulawesi Cardinal Shrimp (Caridina sp.)

The Sulawesi Cardinal Shrimp is arguably the most spectacular freshwater shrimp in the hobby, sporting an intense red body scattered with bright white dots that resemble a starfield. Endemic to the ancient alkaline lakes of Sulawesi — primarily Lake Matano — it requires very specific warm, hard, and alkaline water chemistry that mirrors its unique volcanic lake environment. Best maintained in a dedicated Sulawesi biotope with other endemic Sulawesi species rather than a general shrimp community.

Prepare Sulawesi-specific water: pH 7.5–8.5, GH 10–20, KH 6–12, temperature 27–30°C. Use a specialized Sulawesi mineral salt additive to achieve correct ion balance. Sponge filtration only — shrimp are too small for standard filters. Feed biofilm, dedicated shrimp foods, and occasional spirulina powder. Keep in a heavily biofilm-colonized tank — bare, new tanks will not support them. Never use medications containing copper.