Ninja Shrimp - Caridina serratirostris : Complete Shrimp Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The captivating Ninja Shrimp (Caridina serratirostris) are known for their incredible ability to change colour rapidly, providing them with the ultimate camouflage to avoid predators in their natural habitat. Despite their name, Ninja Shrimp are actually very peaceful and make a great addition to a peaceful community tank. While they can be a bit shy, they thrive in large groups and enjoy hiding amongst plants and driftwood.
When it comes to tank mates, it's vital to choose peaceful and tiny fish species to avoid any potential conflicts. Pygmy Corydoras and other micro fish are great options, but larger fish may see the shrimp as a tasty snack. You should also keep all types of crayfish and freshwater crabs away from Ninja shrimp, and small African Dwarf Frogs are also capable of catching the shrimp.
When setting up a tank for Ninja Shrimp, be sure to include plenty of hiding spots and foraging areas. Live plants like Java moss are a great addition, and shrimp tubes, rocks, and driftwood can mimic their natural habitat. Ninja Shrimp come in many colour variations like yellow, orange, red, black, brown, cream, etc. There are many pattern variations as well; they can be with or without white stripes on the back or numerous small stripes across the body.
Overall, Ninja Shrimp are relatively low-maintenance and easy to care for, making them an excellent option for beginners and experienced aquarists alike. With their stunning colour variations and unique abilities, they are sure to add a touch of intrigue and excitement to any aquarium.
Ninja Shrimp Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Ninja Shrimp exhibits clear sexual dimorphism, which means that males and females have different physical characteristics. In this species, males tend to be smaller and slimmer than females, with a more pronounced and curved rostrum.
Females, on the other hand, have rounder and larger bodies, with wider abdomens to accommodate eggs. The most striking difference, however, is in their colouration. Males are usually more vibrant in colour, while females tend to be more subdued. The female's colouring is an adaptation to protect her and her developing eggs from predators by blending into her environment.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Caridina serratirostris |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1892 |
| Other Names | Chameleon Shrimp, Christmas Shrimp, Honey Shrimp |
| Classification | Malacostraca |
| Order | Decapoda |
| Family | Atyidae |
| Genus | Caridina |
| Origins | Madagascar , Australia , Fiji |
| Max Size | 2.5 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | All Levels |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | Groups 6+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Ovoviviparous |
| Lifespan | Up to 2 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.5 - 8.0 |
| GH | 2 - 14 |
| KH | 1 - 8 |
| TDS | 100 - 300 |
| ℉ | 75 - 80 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 24 - 27 |
Natural Habitat
Ninja Shrimp are amazing creatures that can be found in the Indo-west Pacific region, spanning from Madagascar to Fiji, including northern Queensland, Australia. Ninja Shrimp typically inhabit the lower reaches of rivers or streams on islands, often in close proximity to the sea. These freshwater shrimp are also capable of surviving in slightly brackish water, making them incredibly adaptable to their environment.
In their natural habitat, Ninja Shrimp prefer leaf litter and riverbank vegetation and are often found hiding under rocks. This provides the perfect environment for the shrimp to feed, shelter, rest, and hide. Adding Ninja Shrimp to your aquarium is an excellent way to showcase their unique beauty and contribute to their conservation efforts.
Breeding
Breeding Ninja shrimp can be a daunting task for even the most experienced shrimp enthusiasts. Unfortunately, information on the subject is scarce, and there are no confirmed reports of successful breeding. However, based on breeding Amano shrimp, it is believed that Ninja shrimp also go through a larval stage before maturing into full-grown shrimp.
This process can be challenging, as the fry requires brackish water in the early stages of life before gradually acclimating to freshwater. Breeding Amano shrimp has taught us that any missteps in the process can lead to the death of the fry. However, with careful attention to salinity levels and the timing of the transition from brackish to freshwater, it is possible to breed Ninja shrimp successfully. While the process may be complex, the rewards of breeding this unique and fascinating species are undoubtedly worth the effort.
Diet & feeding
Ninja Shrimp are omnivores and consume a wide range of foods in their natural habitat, including algae, biofilm, detritus, and various types of plant matter. In an aquarium, they will readily accept a variety of foods, including algae wafers, shrimp pellets, and blanched vegetables like zucchini and spinach. They are also known to enjoy live foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia.
However, it's essential to ensure their diet is balanced and not too heavy in protein, as too much protein can lead to health issues. Providing a diverse and balanced diet will not only keep these shrimp healthy but also enhance their vibrant colouration.
