Sulawesi Fan Shrimp (Caridina longidigita)

Experience the beauty and uniqueness of the Sulawesi Fan Shrimp, a remarkable freshwater species that will undoubtedly make an impressive addition to your aquarium. These shrimp are highly sought after for their striking subtle colours and patterns. Still, their care requires a particular set of stable water parameters, making them best suited for experienced aquarists.

The challenge of finding compatible fish that will not threaten these shrimps can be overcome by opting for Rabbit Snails, a fascinating live-bearing species that shares the same habitat in ancient lakes. These highly social non-aggressive shrimps can thrive in colonies of six or more individuals, adding colour and diversity to your aquatic setup.

To provide optimal conditions for these shrimps to flourish, a combination of crushed coral and coral sand should be mixed with the regular substrate in the aquarium. It is also highly recommended to use RO water and specialist freshwater minerals to achieve the desired water hardness. Careful water changes are necessary, as the Sulawesi Fan Shrimp is highly sensitive to fluctuations in water chemistry.

Maintaining a steady water temperature between 27-29 °C is crucial, and the tank must not drop below 27 °C, as these shrimps cannot thrive in lower temperatures. The key to creating the perfect environment for these shrimps is aqua-scaping the tank with plenty of rocky structures and crevices. While you may add some aquatic plants, overplanting should be avoided.

The Sulawesi Fan Shrimp is a mesmerizing creature with a unique appearance that sets it apart from other Shrimps. These remarkable creatures have transparent bodies with a light pinkish-brown hue adorned with scattered bright white spots and several prominent white stripes.

What makes the Sulawesi Fan Shrimp genuinely fascinating, however, is the unusually long setae that make their chelae resemble brush-like fans. This distinctive feature is a wonder to behold and adds to the Shrimp's overall allure.

In summary, with proper care and attention, the Sulawesi Fan Shrimp can thrive and breed in captivity, bringing colour, beauty, and diversity to your aquarium. With its unique and specialized requirements, this Shrimp is a true treasure for experienced aquarists seeking to elevate their aquatic setup.

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Feeding

The diet of Sulawesi Fan Shrimp is an essential aspect of their overall care and well-being, and providing them with the proper nutrition is vital to ensuring their health and longevity.

These freshwater Shrimp are omnivores and will eat various foods, including algae, detritus, and tiny organisms such as insect larvae and small crustaceans. Therefore, feeding them a well-rounded diet that includes plant and animal matter is crucial, providing them with the necessary nutrients to thrive. Some aquarists also provide specialized shrimp food, which can be a great supplement to their diet.

Watching these shrimps feed is a treat in itself, as they use their small claws to sift through the substrate and pick out small food particles. Providing a varied and nutritious diet will not only promote healthy growth but will also bring out the vibrancy and natural behaviours of these fascinating creatures.

Sexual Dimorphism

It is relatively straightforward to differentiate between a male and female Sulawesi Fan Shrimp. Males are generally smaller and more slender than females, and their colouration is often more muted. Additionally, males have a characteristic modified appendage called the gonopod, which is used for mating and can be easily distinguished from female appendages. Females, on the other hand, are typically larger and more robust than males and exhibit more prominent colouration, especially during the breeding season.