Blue Leg Poso Sulawesi Shrimp - Caridina caerulea Shrimp Profile & Care Guide
Introduction
The Blue Leg Poso Sulawesi Shrimp (Caridina caerulea) is an exceptional and captivating species that can make an excellent addition to a well-maintained aquarium. With proper care and attention, these shrimps can thrive and even breed in captivity, contributing discreet colouration and diversity to any aquatic setup. While not as vibrant as some other Sulawesi shrimp, the Blue Leg Poso Sulawesi Shrimp still possesses undeniable beauty. Its long blue rostrum, clear to blueish body, two blue spots on the tail, and bright orange antennae are distinctive features that make it easily recognizable.
However, these shrimps require a distinct set of rare and stable water parameters to maintain their thriving state, making them best suited for experienced aquarists who can provide the specialized conditions they need. Finding suitable fish that are compatible in size, pose no threat to the shrimps or shrimplets, and can thrive in the unique conditions of the aquarium may prove challenging. A highly recommended tankmate option would be Rabbit Snails, an intriguing live-bearing species that share the same habitat in the ancient lakes.
To ensure optimal social dynamics, it is advisable to keep colonies of six or more individuals, preferably ten or more. These gregarious and non-aggressive shrimps are not shy and can often be observed foraging on rocks and other bio-film-covered surfaces, using their bright white chelipeds to pick at the substrates. They are known to spend a significant amount of time in view, providing a delightful sight for aquarium enthusiasts.
Maintaining proper water conditions for the Blue Leg Poso Sulawesi Shrimp is of utmost importance. A combination of crushed coral and coral sand can be mixed with the regular substrate to maintain a high pH level in the aquarium. Some aquarists prefer to keep a small bag of aragonite in the filtration system to achieve this as well. Additionally, using reverse osmosis (RO) water and specialist freshwater minerals is highly recommended to attain the desired water hardness. Care must be taken during water changes, as these shrimps are highly sensitive to fluctuations in water chemistry. It is recommended to change only about 10% of the water regularly, and some aquarists prefer to prepare fresh water in a bucket containing aragonite, a heater, and gentle aeration before partial water changes.
To ensure a stable environment for the Blue Leg Poso Sulawesi Shrimp, it is crucial to maintain a constant water temperature between 27-29 °C, avoiding drops below 27 °C, as these shrimps cannot thrive in lower temperatures. Aquascaping the tank with an abundance of rocky structures and crevices is essential, as these shrimps prefer hard substrates. While some aquatic plants can be added, overplanting should be avoided to accommodate their preference for rocky environments.
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Sexual Dimorphism
Male and female Blue Leg Poso Sulawesi Shrimp can be distinguished by the size and shape of their uropods and the appendages on the underside of their tails. The uropods of males are elongated, pointed, and have a narrow base, whereas those of females are shorter, broader, and have a wider base. Moreover, the second and third segments of the males' antennae are longer and more slender when compared to those of the females.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Caridina caerulea |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 2009 |
| Other Names | Blue Leg Shrimp, Blue Legged Shrimp, Blue Poso Shrimp |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Malacostraca |
| Order | Decapoda |
| Family | Atyidae |
| Genus | Caridina |
| Origins | Indonesia |
| Approx Max Size | 2.5 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | All Levels |
| Difficulty | Intermediate - Advanced |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | Groups 6+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Ovoviviparous |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 2 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 7.0 - 8.5 |
| GH | 4 - 8 |
| KH | 4 - 6 |
| TDS | 50 - 150 |
| ℉ | 80 - 84 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 27 - 29 |
Natural Habitat
The Blue Leg Poso Sulawesi Shrimp is a freshwater shrimp species that are native to the Sulawesi island in Indonesia. The species is commonly found in Lake Poso in the southwestern part of Sulawesi. These Shrimp prefer clear and clean water with stable water parameters, which include a pH range of 7.0 to 8.5 and a temperature range of 24 to 28°C. They are most commonly found in fast-moving waters with rocky substrates, where they can forage on biofilm and algae on the rocks.
The Blue Leg Poso Shrimp is usually found in large colonies, ranging in size from a few individuals to thousands. These colonies are commonly found in areas with good water flow, as the species requires oxygen-rich water to thrive. In their natural habitat, these Shrimp live amongst various aquatic plants, providing them with a source of food and shelter. However, they also seek refuge in crevices and rocky overhangs.
Breeding
When it comes to breeding, Blue Leg Poso Sulawesi Shrimp are pretty prolific and will readily breed in optimal conditions. Female Shrimp can carry up to 30 eggs, which hatch into miniature replicas of the adult shrimp after approximately 30 days. However, it is crucial to note that breeding may require more specialized care, including precise water parameters and the availability of suitable breeding sites.
Diet & Feeding
The Blue Leg Poso Sulawesi Shrimp is an omnivorous species that feeds on various food sources in its natural habitat. In the wild, they primarily feed on biofilm, algae, and other plant matter that grows on rocks, driftwood, and other hard surfaces. They are also known to scavenge on detritus and consume small invertebrates and crustaceans. In captivity, a balanced diet can be provided by offering a variety of foods such as algae wafers, sinking pellets, and shrimp pellets. You can also add fresh vegetables such as spinach, kale, zucchini, and cucumber to their diet.
In addition, supplementing their diet with calcium-rich foods like shrimp shells and cuttlebone can help promote healthy shell growth and moulting. Overfeeding should be avoided, as it can cause excess waste, leading to poor water quality. Instead, providing small amounts of food several times a day is recommended, rather than one large feeding. These Shrimp are a social species, and they tend to feed communally, so providing enough food for the entire colony is essential for their health and well-being.
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Published: 22 Feb 2023
Last Updated: 22 Jul 2023